The works of Virgil containing his Pastorals, Georgics and Aeneis : adorn'd with a hundred sculptures / translated into English verse by Mr. Dryden.

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To his Royall Highness PRINCE GEORGE of DENMARK. &

Virgil's Aeneis.

The First Book of the Aeneis.

The Argument.

The Trojans, after a seven Years Voyage, set sail for Italy, but are overtaken by a dreadful Storm, which Aeolus raises at Juno's Re∣quest. The Tempest sinks one, and scatters the rest: Neptune drives off the Winds and calms the Sea. Aeneas with his own Ship, and six more, arrives safe at an Affrican Port. Venus complains to Jupiter of her Son's Misfortunes. Jupiter comforts her, and sends Mercury to procure him a kind Reception among the Carthagini∣ans. Aeneas going out to discover the Country, meets his Mother in the Shape of an Huntress, who conveys him in a Cloud to Carthage; where he sees his Friends whom he thought lost, and receives a kind Entertainment from the Queen. Dido by a device of Venus begins to have a Passion for him, and after some Discourse with him, desires the History of his Adventures since the Siege of Troy, which is the Subject of the two following Books.

ARms, and the Man I sing, who, forc'd by Fate, And haughty Juno's unrelenting Hate; Expell'd and exil'd, left the Trojan Shoar: Long Labours, both by Sea and Land he bore; And in the doubtful War, before he wonLine 5 The Latian Realm, and built the destin'd Town: His banish'd Gods restor'd to Rites Divine, And setl'd sure Succession in his Line: From whence the Race of Alban Fathers come, And the long Glories of Majestick Rome.Line 10

O Muse! the Causes and the Crimes relate, What Goddess was provok'd, and whence her hate:

For what Offence the Queen of Heav'n began To persecute so brave, so just a Man! Involv'd his anxious Life in endless Cares,Line 15 Expos'd to Wants, and hurry'd into Wars! Can Heav'nly Minds such high resentment show; Or exercise their Spight in Human Woe?

Against the Tiber's Mouth, but far away, An ancient Town was seated on the Sea:Line 20 A Tyrian Colony; the People made Stout for the War, and studious of their Trade. Carthage the Name, belov'd by Juno more Than her own Argos, or the Samian Shoar. Here stood her Chariot, here, if Heav'n were kind,Line 25 The Seat of awful Empire she design'd. Yet she had heard an ancient Rumour fly, (Long cited by the People of the Sky;) That times to come shou'd see the Trojan Race Her Carthage ruin, and her Tow'rs deface:Line 30 Nor thus confin'd, the Yoke of Sov'raign Sway, Should on the Necks of all the Nations lay. She ponder'd this, and fear'd it was in Fate; Nor cou'd forget the War she wag'd of late, For conq'ring Greece against the Trojan State.Line 35 Besides long Causes working in her Mind, And secret Seeds of Envy lay behind. Deep graven in her Heart, the Doom remain'd Of partial Paris, and her Form disdain'd: The Grace bestow'd on ravish'd Ganimed,Line 40 Electra's Glories, and her injur'd Bed. Each was a Cause alone, and all combin'd To kindle Vengeance in her haughty Mind. For this, far distant from the Latian Coast, She drove the Remnants of the Trojan Hoast:Line 45

And sev'n long Years th' unhappy wand'ring Train, Were toss'd by Storms, and scatter'd through the Main. Such Time, such Toil requir'd the Roman Name, Such length of Labour for so vast a Frame.

Now scarce the Trojan Fleet with Sails and Oars,Line 50 Had left behind the Fair Sicilian Shoars: Ent'ring with chearful Shouts the wat'ry Reign, And ploughing frothy Furrows in the Main: When lab'ring still, with endless discontent, The Queen of Heav'n did thus her Fury vent.Line 55

Then am I vanquish'd, must I yield, said she, And must the Trojans reign in Italy? So Fate will have it, and Jove adds his Force; Nor can my Pow'r divert their happy Course. Cou'd angry Pallas, with revengeful Spleen,Line 60 The Grecian Navy burn, and drown the Men? She for the Fault of one offending Foe, The Bolts of Jove himself presum'd to throw: With Whirlwinds from beneath she toss'd the Ship, And bare expos'd the Bosom of the deep:Line 65 Then, as an Eagle gripes the trembling Game, The Wretch yet hissing with her Father's Flame, She strongly seiz'd, and with a burning Wound, Transfix'd and naked, on a Rock she bound. But I, who walk in awful State above,Line 70 The Majesty of Heav'n, the Sister-wife of Jove; For length of Years, my fruitless Force employ Against the thin remains of ruin'd Troy. What Nations now to Juno's Pow'r will pray, Or Off'rings on my slighted Altars lay?Line 75

Thus rag'd the Goddess, and with Fury fraught, The restless Regions of the Storms she sought. Where in a spacious Cave of living Stone, The Tyrant E'lus from his Airy Throne, Line 80

With Pow'r Imperial curbs the strugling Winds,Line 80 And sounding Tempests in dark Prisons binds. This Way, and that, th' impatient Captives tend, And pressing for Release, the Mountains rend; High in his Hall, th' undaunted Monarch stands, And shakes his Scepter, and their Rage commands:Line 85 Which did he not, their unresisted Sway Wou'd sweep the World before them, in their Way: Earth, Air, and Seas through empty Space wou'd rowl, And Heav'n would fly before the driving Soul. In fear of this, the Father of the GodsLine 90 Confin'd their Fury to those dark Abodes, And lock'd'em safe within, oppress'd with Mountain loads: Impos'd a King, with arbritrary Sway, To loose their Fetters, or their Force allay. To whom the suppliant Queen her Pray'rs addrest,Line 95 And thus the tenour of her Suit express'd.

O E'lus! for to thee the King of Heav'n The Pow'r of Tempests, and of Winds has giv'n: Thy Force alone their Fury can restrain, And smooth the Waves, or swell the troubl'd Main.Line 100 A race of wand'ring Slaves, abhorr'd by me, With prosp'rous Passage cut the Thuscan Sea: To fruitful Italy their Course they steer, And for their vanquish'd Gods design new Temples there. Raise all thy Winds, with Night involve the Skies;Line 105 Sink, or disperse my fatal Enemies. Twice sev'n, the charming Daughters of the Main, Around my Person wait, and bear my Train: Succeed my Wish, and second my Design, The fairest, Deiopeia, shall be thine;Line 110 And make thee Father of a happy Line.

To this the God—'Tis yours, O Queen! to will The Work, which Duty binds me to fulfil.

These airy Kingdoms, and this wide Command, Are all the Presents of your bounteous Hand:Line 115 Yours is my Sov'raign's Grace, and, as your Guest, I sit with Gods at their Coelestial Feast. Raise Tempests at your Pleasure, or subdue; Dispose of Empire, which I hold from you. He said, and hurld against the Mountain side,Line 120 His quiv'ring Spear, and all, the God apply'd. The raging Winds rush through the hollow Wound, And dance aloft in Air, and skim along the Ground: Then setling on the Sea, the Surges sweep; Raise liquid Mountains, and disclose the deep.Line 125 South, East, and West, with mix'd Confusion roar, And rowl the foaming Billows to the Shoar. The Cables crack, the Sailors fearful Cries Ascend; and sable Night involves the Skies; And Heav'n it self is ravish'd from their Eyes.Line 130 Loud Peals of Thunder from the Poles ensue, Then flashing Fires the transient Light renew: The Face of things a frightful Image bears, And present Death in various Forms appears. Struck with unusual Fright, the Trojan Chief,Line 135 With lifted Hands and Eyes, invokes Relief. And thrice, and four times happy those, he cry'd, That under Ilian Walls before their Parents dy'd. Tydides, bravest of the Grecian Train, Why cou'd not I by that strong Arm be slain,Line 140 And lye by noble Hector on the Plain, Or great Sarpedon, in those bloody Fields, Where Simois rouls the Bodies, and the Shields Of Heroes, whose dismember'd Hands yet bear The Dart aloft, and clench the pointed Spear?Line 145 Thus while the Pious Prince his Fate bewails, Fierce Boreas drove against his flying Sails,

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And rent the Sheets: The raging Billows rise, And mount the tossing Vessel to the Skies: Nor can the shiv'ring Oars sustain the Blow;Line 150 The Galley gives her side, and turns her Prow: While those astern descending down the Steep, Thro' gaping Waves behold the boiling deep. Three Ships were hurry'd by the Southern Blast, And on the secret Shelves with Fury cast.Line 155 Those hidden Rocks, th' Ausonian Sailors knew, They call'd them Altars, when they rose in view, And show'd their spacious Backs above the Flood. Three more, fierce Eurus in his angry Mood, Dash'd on the Shallows of the moving Sand,Line 160 And in mid Ocean left them moor'd a-land. Orontes Barque that bore the Lycian Crew, (A horrid Sight) ev'n in the Hero's view, From Stem to Stern, by Waves was overborn: The trembling Pilot, from his Rudder torn,Line 165 Was headlong hurl'd; thrice round, the Ship was tost, Then bulg'd at once, and in the deep was lost. And here and there above the Waves were seen Arms, Pictures, precious Goods, and floating Men. The stoutest Vessel to the Storm gave way,Line 170 And suck'd through loosen'd Planks the rushing Sea. Ilioneus was her Chief: Alethes old, Achates faithful, Abas young and bold Endur'd not less: their Ships, with gaping Seams, Admit the Deluge of the briny Streams.Line 175

Mean time Imperial Neptune heard the Sound Of raging Billows breaking on the Ground: Displeas'd, and fearing for his Wat'ry Reign, He reard his awful Head above the Main: Serene in Majesty, then rowl'd his EyesLine 180 Around the Space of Earth, and Seas, and Skies.

He saw the Trojan Fleet dispers'd, distress'd By stormy Winds and wintry Heav'n oppress'd. Full well the God his Sister's envy knew, And what her Aims, and what her Arts pursue:Line 185 He summon'd Eurus and the western Blast, And first an angry glance on both he cast: Then thus rebuk'd; Audacious Winds! from whence This bold Attempt, this Rebel Insolence? Is it for you to ravage Seas and Land,Line 190 Unauthoriz'd by my supream Command? To raise such Mountains on the troubl'd Main? Whom I—But first 'tis fit, the Billows to restrain, And then you shall be taught obedience to my Reign. Hence, to your Lord my Royal Mandate bear,Line 195 The Realms of Ocean and the Fields of Air Are mine, not his; by fatal Lot to me The liquid Empire fell, and Trident of the Sea. His Pow'r to hollow Caverns is confin'd, There let him reign, the Jailor of the Wind:Line 200 With hoarse Commands his breathing Subjects call, And boast and bluster in his empty Hall. He spoke: And while he spoke, he smooth'd the Sea, Dispell'd the Darkness, and restor'd the Day: Cymothoe, Triton, and the Sea-green TrainLine 205 Of beauteous Nymphs, the Daughters of the Main, Clear from the Rocks the Vessels with their hands; The God himself with ready Trident stands, And opes the Deep, and spreads the moving sands; Then heaves them off the sholes: where e're he guidesLine 210 His finny Coursers, and in Triumph rides, The Waves unruffle and the Sea subsides. As when in Tumults rise th' ignoble Crow'd, Mad are their Motions, and their Tongues are loud; Line 215

And Stones and Brands in ratling Vollies fly,Line 215 And all the Rustick Arms that Fury can supply: If then some grave and Pious Man appear, They hush their Noise, and lend a list'ning Ear; He sooths with sober Words their angry Mood, And quenches their innate Desire of Blood.Line 220 So when the Father of the Flood appears, And o're the Seas his Sov'raign Trident rears, Their Fury falls: He skims the liquid Plains, High on his Chariot, and with loosen'd Reins, Majestick moves along, and awful Peace maintains.Line 225 The weary Trojans ply their shatter'd Oars, To nearest Land, and make the Lybian Shoars.

Within a long Recess there lies a Bay, An Island shades it from the rowling Sea, And forms a Port secure for Ships to ride,Line 230 Broke by the jutting Land on either side: In double Streams the briny Waters glide. Betwixt two rows of Rocks, a Sylvan Scene Appears above, and Groves for ever green: A Grott is form'd beneath, with Mossy Seats,Line 235 To rest the Nereids, and exclude the Heats. Down thro' the Cranies of the living Walls The Crystal Streams descend in murm'ring Falls. No Haulsers need to bind the Vessels here, Nor bearded Anchors, for no Storms they fear.Line 240 Sev'n Ships within this happy Harbour meet, The thin Remainders of the scatter'd Fleet. The Trojans, worn with Toils, and spent with Woes, Leap on the welcome Land, and seek their wish'd Repose. First, good Achates, with repeated stroaksLine 245 Of clashing Flints, their hidden Fire provokes; Short Flame succeeds, a Bed of wither'd Leaves The dying Sparkles in their Fall receives:

Caught into Life, in smoaking Fumes they rise, And, fed with stronger Food, invade the Skies.Line 250 The Trojans, dropping wet, or stand around The chearful blaze, or lye along the Ground: Some dry their Corn infected with the Brine, Then grind with Marbles, and prepare to dine. Aeneas climbs the Mountain's airy Brow,Line 255 And takes a Prospect of the Seas below: If Capys thence, or Antheus he cou'd spy; Or see the Streamers of Caicus fly. No Vessels were in view: But, on the Plain, Three beamy Stags command a Lordly TrainLine 260 Of branching Heads; the more ignoble Throng Attend their stately Steps, and slowly graze along. He stood; and while secure they fed below, He took the Quiver, and the trusty Bow Achates us'd to bear; the Leaders firstLine 265 He laid along, and then the Vulgar pierc'd: Nor ceas'd his Arrows, 'till the shady Plain Sev'n mighty Bodies, with their Blood distain. For the sev'n Ships he made an equal Share, And to the Port return'd, Triumphant from the War.Line 270 The Jarrs of gen'rous Wine, (Acestes Gist, When his Trinacrian Shoars the Navy left) He set abroach, and for the Feast prepar'd; In equal Portions, with the Ven'son shar'd. Thus while he dealt it round, the pious Chief,Line 275 With chearful Words, allay'd the common Grief. Endure, and conquer; Jove will soon dispose To future Good, our past and present Woes. With me, the Rocks of Scylla you have try'd; Th' inhuman Cyclops, and his Den defy'd.Line 280 What greater Ills hereafter can you bear? Resume your Courage, and dismiss your Care.

An Hour will come, with Pleasure to relate Your Sorrows past, as Benefits of Fate. Through various Hazards, and Events we moveLine 285 To Latium, and the Realms foredoom'd by Jove. Call'd to the Seat, (the Promise of the Skies,) Where Trojan Kingdoms once again may rise. Endure the Hardships of your present State, Live, and reserve your selves for better Fate.Line 290

These Words he spoke; but spoke not from his Heart; His outward Smiles conceal'd his inward Smart. The jolly Crew, unmindful of the past, The Quarry share, their plenteous Dinner haste: Some strip the Skin, some portion out the Spoil;Line 295 The Limbs yet trembling, in the Cauldrons boyl: Some on the Fire the reeking Entrails broil. Stretch'd on the grassy Turf, at ease they dine; Restore their Strength with Meat, and chear their Souls with Wine. Their Hunger thus appeas'd, their Care attends,Line 300 The doubtful Fortune of their absent Friends: Alternate Hopes and Fears, their Minds possess, Whether to deem 'em dead, or in Distress. Above the rest, Aeneas mourns the Fate Of brave Orontes, and th' uncertain StateLine 305 Of Gyas, Lycus, and of Amycus: The Day, but not their Sorrows, ended thus. When, from aloft, Almighty Jove surveys Earth, Air, and Shoars, and navigable Seas, At length on Lybian Realms he fix'd his Eyes:Line 310 Whom, pond'ring thus on Human Miseries, When Venus saw, she with a lowly Look, Not free from Tears, her Heav'nly Sire bespoke.

O King of Gods and Men, whose awful Hand, Disperses Thunder on the Seas and Land;Line 315 Disposing all with absolute Command:

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To her Royall Highness the Princess Anne of Denmark

AE 1. l. 295

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To her Grace Mary Dutchess of Ormond

How cou'd my Pious Son thy Pow'r incense, Or what, alas! is vanish'd Troy's Offence? Our hope of Italy not only lost, On various Seas, by various Tempests tost,Line 320 But shut from ev'ry Shoar, and barr'd from ev'ry Coast.

You promis'd once, a Progeny Divine, Of Romans, rising from the Trojan Line, In after-times shou'd hold the World in awe, And to the Land and Ocean give the Law.Line 325 How is your Doom revers'd, which eas'd my Care; When Troy was ruin'd in that cruel War? Then Fates to Fates I cou'd oppose; but now, When Fortune still pursues her former Blow, What can I hope? what worse can still succeed?Line 330 What end of Labours has your Will decreed? Antenor, from the midst of Grecian Hosts, Could pass secure, and pierce th' Illyrian Coasts: Where rowling down the Steep, Timavus raves, And through nine Channels disembogues his Waves.Line 335 At length he founded Padua's happy Seat, And gave his Trojans a secure Retreat: There fix'd their Arms, and there renew'd their Name, And there in Quiet rules, and crown'd with Fame. But we, descended from your sacred Line,Line 340 Entitled to your Heav'n, and Rites Divine, Are banish'd Earth, and, for the Wrath of one, Remov'd from Latium, and the promis'd Throne. Are these our Scepters? These our due Rewards? And is it thus that Jove his plighted Faith regards?Line 345

To whom, the Father of th'immortal Race, Smiling with that serene indulgent Face, With which he drives the Clouds, and clears the Skies: First gave a holy Kiss, then thus replies.

Daughter, dismiss thy Fears: To thy desireLine 350 The Fates of thine are fix'd, and stand entire. Thou shalt behold thy wish'd Lavinian Walls, And, ripe for Heav'n, when Fate Aeneas calls, Then shalt thou bear him up, sublime, to me; No Councils have revers'd my firm Decree.Line 355 And lest new Fears disturb thy happy State, Know, I have search'd the Mystick Rolls of Fate: Thy Son (nor is th' appointed Season far) In Italy shall wage succesful War: Shall tame fierce Nations in the bloody Field,Line 360 And Sov'raign Laws impose, and Cities build. 'Till, after ev'ry Foe sub du'd, the Sun Thrice through the Signs his Annual Race shall run: This is his time prefix'd. Ascanius then, Now called Julus, shall begin his Reign.Line 365 He thirty rowling Years the Crown shall wear: Then from Lavinium shall the Seat transfer: And, with hard Labour, Alba-longa build; The Throne with his Succession shall be fill'd, Three hundred Circuits more: then shall be seen,Line 370 Ilia the fair, a Priestess and a Queen. Who full of Mars, in time, with kindly Throws, Shall at a Birth two goodly Boys disclose. The Royal Babes a tawny Wolf shall drain, Then Romulus his Grandsire's Throne shall gain.Line 375 Of Martial Tow'rs the Founder shall become, The People Romans call, the City Rome. To them, no Bounds of Empire I assign; Nor term of Years to their immortal Line. Ev'•• haughty Juno, who, with endless Broils,Line 380 Earth, Seas, and Heav'n, and Jove himself turmoils; At length atton'd, her friendly Pow'r shall joyn, To cherish and advance the Trojan Line.

The subject World shall Rome's Dominion own, And, prostrate, shall adore the Nation of the Gown.Line 385 An Age is ripening in revolving Fate, When Troy shall overturn the Grecian State: And sweet Revenge her conqu'ring Sons shall call, To crush the People that conspir'd her Fall. Then Caesar from the Julian Stock shall rise,Line 390 Whose Empire Ocean, and whose Fame the Skies Alone shall bound. Whom, fraught with Eastern Spoils, Our Heav'n, the just Reward of Human Toyls, Securely shall reward with Rites Divine; And Incense shall ascend before his sacred Shrine.Line 395 Then dire Debate, and impious War shall cease, And the stern Age be softned into Peace: Then banish'd Faith shall once again return, And Vestal Fires in hallow'd Temples burn; And Remus with Quirinus shall sustain,Line 400 The righteous Laws, and Fraud and Force restrain. Janus himself before his Fane shall wait, And keep the dreadful issues of his Gate, With Bolts and Iron Bars: within remains Imprison'd Fury, bound in brazen Chains:Line 405 High on a Trophie rais'd, of useless Arms, He sits, and threats the World with vain Alarms.

He said, and sent Cyllenius with Command To free the Ports, and ope the Punique Land To Trojan Guests; lest ignorant of Fate,Line 410 The Queen might force them from her Town and State. Down from the Steep of Heav'n Cyllenius flies, And cleaves with all his Wings the yielding Skies. Soon on the Lybian Shoar descends the God; Performs his Message, and displays his Rod:Line 415 The surly Murmurs of the People cease, And, as the Fates requir'd, they give the Peace.

The Queen her self suspends the rigid Laws, The Trojans pities, and protects their Cause.

Mean time, in Shades of Night Aeneas lies;Line 420 Care seiz'd his Soul, and Sleep forsook his Eyes. But when the Sun restor'd the chearful Day, He rose, the Coast and Country to survey, Anxious and eager to discover more: It look'd a wild uncultivated Shoar:Line 425 But whether Human Kind, or Beasts alone Possess'd the new-found Region, was unknown. Beneath a hollow Rock his Fleet he hides; Tall Trees surround the Mountains shady sides: The bending Brow above, a safe Retreat provides.Line 430 Arm'd with two pointed Darts, he leaves his Friends, And true Achates on his steps attends. Loe, in the deep Recesses of the Wood, Before his Eyes his Goddess Mother stood: A Huntress in her Habit and her Meen;Line 435 Her dress a Maid, her Air confess'd a Queen. Bare were her Knees, and knots her Garments bind; Loose was her Hair, and wanton'd in the Wind; Her Hand sustain'd a Bow, her Quiver hung behind. She seem'd a Virgin of the Spartan Blood:Line 440 With such Array Harpalice bestrode Her Thracian Courser, and outstrip'd the rapid Flood. Ho! Strangers! have you lately seen, she said, One of my Sisters, like my self array'd; Who crost the Lawn, or in the Forest stray'd?Line 445 A Painted Quiver at her Back she bore; Vary'd with Spots, a Linx's Hide she wore: And at full Cry pursu'd the tusky Boar? Thus Venus: Thus her Son reply'd agen; None of your Sisters have we heard or seen,Line 450

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To y^e Right Hon^ble: Anne Countess of Exeter Wife to y^e Right Hon^ble: John Earle of Exeter Baron Coecill of Burleigh

AE. 1. l. 435

O virgin! or what other Name you bear A bove that stile; O more than mortal fair! Your Voice and Meen Coelestial birth betray! If, as you seem, the Sister of the Day; Or one at least of Chast Diana's Train,Line 455 Let not an humble Suppliant sue in vain: But tell a Stranger, long in Tempests tost, What Earth we tread, and who commands the Coast? Then on your Name shall wretched Mortals call; And offer'd Victims at your Altars fall.Line 460 I dare not, she reply'd, assume the Name Of Goddess, or Coelestial Honours claim: For Tyrian Virgins Bows and Quivers bear, And Purple Buskins o're their Ankles wear. Know, gentle Youth, in Lybian Lands you are:Line 465 A People rude in Peace, and rough in War. The rising City, which from far you see, Is Carthage; and a Tyrian Colony. Phenician Dido rules the growing State, Who fled from Tyre, to shun her Brother's hate:Line 470 Great were her wrongs, her Story full of Fate; Which I will sum in short. Sicheus known For wealth, and Brother to the Punic Throne, Possess'd fair Dido's Bed: And either heart At once was wounded with an equal Dart.Line 475 Her Father gave her, yet a spotless Maid; Pigmalion then the Tyrian Scepter sway'd: One who contemn'd Divine and Humane Laws: Then Strife ensu'd, and cursed Gold the Cause. The Monarch, blinded with desire of Wealth;Line 480 With Steel invades his Brother's life by stealth; Before the sacred Altar made him bleed, And long from her conceal'd the cruel deed.

Some Tale, some new Pretence, he daily coin'd, To sooth his Sister, and delude her Mind.Line 485 At length, in dead of Night, the Ghost appears Of her unhappy Lord: the Spectre stares, And with erected Eyes his bloody Bosom bares. The cruel Altars, and his Fate he tells, And the dire Secret of his House reveals.Line 490 Then warns the Widdow, with her household Gods, To seek a Refuge in remote abodes. Last, to support her, in so long a way, He shows her where his hidden Treasure lay. Admonish'd thus, and seiz'd with mortal fright,Line 495 The Queen provides Companions of her flight: They meet; and all combine to leave the State, Who hate the Tyrant, or who fear his hate. They seize a Fleet, which ready rigg'd they find: Nor is Pigmalion's Treasure left behind.Line 500 The Vessels, heavy laden, put to Sea With prosprous winds; a Woman leads the way. I know not, if by stress of Weather driv'n, Or was their fatal Course dispos'd by Heav'n; At last they landed, where from far your EyesLine 505 May view the Turrets of new Carthage rise: There bought a space of Ground, which Byrsa call'd From the Bulls hide, they first inclos'd, and wall'd. But whence are you, what Country claims your Birth? What seek you, Strangers, on our Lybian Earth?Line 510

To whom, with sorrow streaming from his Eyes, And deeply sighing, thus her Son replyes: Cou'd you with Patience hear, or I relate, O Nymph! the tedious Annals of our Fate! Thro' such a train of Woes if I shou'd run,Line 515 The day wou'd sooner than the Tale be done!

From ancient Troy, by Force expell'd, we came, If you by chance have heard the Trojan Name: On various Seas by various Tempests tost, At length we landed on your Lybian Coast.Line 520 The Good Aeneas am I call'd, a Name, While Fortune favour'd, not unknown to Fame: My houshold Gods, Companions of my Woes, With pious Care I rescu'd from our Foes. To fruitful Italy my Course was bent,Line 525 And from the King of Heav'n is my Descent. With twice ten Sail I crost the Phrygian Sea; Fate, and my Mother Goddess, led my Way. Scarce sev'n, the thin Remainders of my Fleet, From Storms preserv'd, within your Harbour meet:Line 530 My self distress'd, an Exile, and unknown, Debarr'd from Europe, and from Asia thrown, In Lybian Desarts wander thus alone.

His tender Parent could no longer bear; But, interposing, sought to sooth his Care.Line 535 Who e're you are, not unbelov'd by Heav'n, Since on our friendly Shoar your Ships are driv'n: Have Courage: To the Gods permit the rest, And to the Queen expose your just Request. Now take this earnest of Success, for more▪Line 540 Your scatter'd Fleet is join'd upon the Shoar; The Winds are chang'd, your Friends from danger free, Or I renounce my Skill in Augury. Twelve Swans behold, in beauteous order move, And stoop with closing Pinions from above:Line 545 Whom late the Bird of Jove had driv'n along, And through the Clouds pursu'd the scatt'ring Throng: Now all united in a goodly Team, They skim the Ground, and seek the quiet Stream. Line 550

As they, with Joy returning, clap their Wings,Line 550 And ride the Circuit of the Skies in Rings: Not otherwise your Ships, and ev'ry Friend, Already hold the Port, or with swift Sails descend. No more Advice is needful, but pursue The Path before you, and the Town in view.Line 555 Thus having said, she turn'd, and made appear Her Neck refulgent, and dishevel'd Hair; Which flowing from her Shoulders, reach'd the Ground, And widely spread Ambrosial Scents around: In length of Train descends her sweeping Gown,Line 560 And by her graceful Walk, the Queen of Love is known. The Prince pursu'd the parting Deity, With Words like these: Ah! whither do you fly? Unkind and cruel, to deceive your Son In borrow'd Shapes, and his Embrace to shun:Line 565 Never to bless my Sight, but thus unknown; And still to speak in Accents not your own. Against the Goddess these Complaints he made; But took the Path, and her Commands obey'd. They march obscure, for Venus kindly shrowds,Line 570 With Mists, their Persons, and involves in Clouds: That, thus unseen, their Passage none might stay, Or force to tell the Causes of their Way. This part perform'd, the Goddess flies sublime, To visit Paphos; and her native Clime:Line 575 Where Garlands ever green, and ever fair, With Vows are offer'd, and with solemn Pray'r: A hundred Altars in her Temple Smoke, A thousand bleeding Hearts her Pow'r invoke.

They climb the next Ascent, and, looking down,Line 580 Now at a nearer Distance view the Town: The Prince, with Wonder, sees the stately Tow'rs, Which late were Huts, and Shepherd's homely Bow'rs.

The Gates and Streets; and hears, from ev'ry part, The Noise, and buisy Concourse of the Mart.Line 585 The toiling Tyrians on each other call, To ply their Labour: Some extend the Wall, Some build the Citadel; the brawny Throng, Or dig, or push unweildy Stones along. Some for their Dwellings chuse a Spot of Ground,Line 590 Which, first design'd, with Ditches they surround. Some Laws ordain, and some attend the Choice Of holy Senates, and elect by Voice. Here some design a Mole, while others there Lay deep Foundations for a Theatre:Line 595 From Marble Quarries mighty Columns hew, For Ornaments of Scenes, and future view. Such is their Toyl, and such their buisy Pains, As exercise the Bees in flow'ry Plains; When Winter past, and Summer scarce begun,Line 600 Invites them forth to labour in the Sun: Some lead their Youth abroad, while some condense Their liquid Store, and some in Cells dispence. Some at the Gate stand ready to receive The Golden Burthen, and their Friends relieve.Line 605 All, with united Force, combine to drive The lazy Drones from the laborious Hive; With Envy stung▪ they view each others Deeds; The fragrant Work with Diligence proceeds. Thrice happy you, whose Walls already rise;Line 610 Aeneas said; and view'd, with lifted Eyes, Their lofty Tow'rs; then ent'ring at the Gate, Conceal'd in Clouds, (prodigious to relate) He mix'd, unmark'd, among the buisy Throng, Born by the Tide, and pass'd unseen along.Line 615

Full in the Centre of the Town there stood, Thick set with Trees, a venerable Wood:

The Tyrians landing near this holy Ground, And digging here, a prosp'rous Omen found: From under Earth a Courser's Head they drew,Line 620 Their Growth and future Fortune to foreshew: This fatal Sign their Foundress Juno gave, Of a Soil fruitful, and a People brave. Sidonian Dido here with solemn State Did Juno's Temple build, and consecrate:Line 625 Enrich'd with Gifts, and with a Golden Shrine; But more the Goddess made the Place Divine. On Brazen Steps the Marble Threshold rose, And brazen Plates the Cedar Beams inclose: The Rafters are with brazen Cov'rings crown'd,Line 630 The lofty Doors on brazen Hinges sound. What first Aeneas in this place beheld, Reviv'd his Courage, and his Fear expel'd. For while, expecting there the Queen, he rais'd His wond'ring Eyes, and round the Temple gaz'd;Line 635 Admir'd the Fortune of the rising Town, The striving Artists, and their Arts renown: He saw in order painted on the Wall, Whatever did unhappy Troy befall: The Wars that Fate around the World had blown,Line 640 All to the Life, and ev'ry Leader known. There Agamemnon, Priam here he spies, And fierce Achilles who both Kings defies. He stop'd, and weeping said, O Friend! ev'n here The Monuments of Trojan Woes appear!Line 645 Our known Disasters fill ev'n foreign Lands: See there, where old unhappy Priam stands! Ev'n the Mute Walls relate the Warrior's Fame, And Trojan Griefs the Tyrians Pity claim. He said, his Tears a ready Passage find,Line 650 Devouring what he saw so well design'd; And with an empty Picture fed his Mind▪

For there he saw the fainting Grecians yield, And here the trembling Trojans quit the Field, Pursu'd by fierce Achilles through the Plain,Line 655 On his high Chariot driving o're the Slain. The Tents of Rhesus next, his Grief renew, By their white Sails betray'd to nightly view. And wakesul Diomede, whose cruel Sword The Centries slew; nor spar'd their slumb'ring Lord.Line 660 Then took the fiery Steeds, e're yet the Food Of Troy they taste, or drink the Xanthian Flood. Elsewhere he saw where Troilus defy'd Achilles, and unequal Combat try'd. Then, where the Boy disarm'd with loosen'd Reins,Line 665 Was by his Horses hurry'd o're the Plains: Hung by the Neck and Hair, and drag'd around, The hostile Spear yet sticking in his Wound; With tracks of Blood inscrib'd the dusty Ground.

Mean time the Trojan Dames oppress'd with Woe,Line 670 To Pallas Fane in long Precession goe, In hopes to reconcile their Heav'nly Foe: They weep, they beat their Breasts, they rend their Hair, And rich embroider'd Vests for Presents bear: But the stern Goddess stands unmov'd with Pray'r.Line 675 Thrice round the Trojan Walls Achilles drew The Corps of Hector, whom in Fight he slew. Here Priam sues, and there, for Sums of Gold, The lifeless Body of his Son is sold. So sad an Object, and so well express'd,Line 680 Drew Sighs and Groans from the griev'd Heroes Breast: To see the Figure of his lifeless Friend, And his old Sire his helpless Hand extend. Himself he saw amidst the Grecian Train, Mix'd in the bloody Battel on the Plain.Line 685

And swarthy Memnon in his Arms he knew His pompous Ensigns, and his Indian Crew. Penthisilea there, with haughty Grace, Leads to the Wars an Amazonian Race: In their right Hands a pointed Dart they wield;Line 690 The left, for Ward, sustains the Lunar Shield. Athwart her Breast a Golden Belt she throws, Amidst the Press alone provokes a thousand Foes: And dares her Maiden Arms to Manly Force oppose. Thus, while the Trojan Prince employs his Eyes,Line 695 Fix'd on the Walls with wonder and surprise; The Beauteous Dido, with a num'rous Train, And pomp of Guards, ascends the sacred Fane. Such on Eurota's Banks, or Cynthus's hight, Diana seems; and so she charms the sight,Line 700 When in the Dance the graceful Goddess leads The Quire of Nymphs, and overtops their Heads. Known by her Quiver, and her lofty Meen, She walks Majestick, and she looks their Queen: Latona sees her shine above the rest,Line 705 And feeds with secret Joy her silent Breast. Such Dido was; with such becoming State, Amidst the Crowd, she walks serenely great. Their Labour to her future Sway she speeds, And passing with a gracious Glance proceeds:Line 710 Then mounts the Throne, high plac'd before the Shrine; In Crowds around the swarming People joyn. She takes Petitions, and dispenses Laws, Hears, and determines ev'ry Private Cause. Their Tasks in equal Portions she divides,Line 715 And where unequal, there by Lots decides. Another Way by chance Aeneas bends His Eyes, and unexpected sees his Friends:

Antheus, Sergestus grave, Cloanthus strong, And at their Backs a mighty Trojan Throng:Line 720 Whom late the Tempest on the Billows tost, And widely scatter'd on another Coast. The Prince, unseen, surpriz'd with Wonder stands, And longs, with joyful haste to join their Hands: But doubtful of the wish'd Event, he stays,Line 725 And from the hollow Cloud his Friends surveys: Impatient 'till they told their present State, And where they left their Ships, and what their Fate; And why they came, and what was their Request: For these were sent commission'd by the rest,Line 730 To sue for leave to land their sickly Men, And gain Admission to the Gracious Queen. Ent'ring, with Cries they fill'd the holy Fane; Then thus, with humble Voice, Ilioneus began. O Queen! indulg'd by Favour of the Gods,Line 735 To found an Empire in these new Abodes; To build a Town, with Statutes to restrain The wild Inhabitants beneath thy Reign: We wretched Trojans tost on ev'ry Shore, From Sea to Sea, thy Clemency implore:Line 740 Forbid the Fires our Shipping to deface, Receive th' unhappy Fugitives to Grace, And spare the remnant of a Pious Race. We come not with design of wastful Prey, To drive the Country, force the Swains away:Line 745 Nor such our Strength, nor such is our Desire, The vanquish'd dare not to such Thoughts aspire. A Land there is, Hesperia nam'd of old, The Soil is fruitful, and the Men are bold: Th' Oenotrians held it once, by common Fame,Line 750 Now call'd Italia, from the Leaders Name.

To that sweet Region was our Voyage bent, When Winds, and ev'ry warring Element, Disturb'd our Course, and far from sight of Land, Cast our torn Vessels on the moving Sand:Line 755 The Sea came on; the South with mighty Roar, Dispers'd and dash'd the rest upon the Rocky Shoar. Those few you see escap'd the Storm, and fear, Unless you interpose, a Shipwreck here: What Men, what Monsters, what inhuman Race,Line 760 What Laws, what barb'rous Customs of the Place, Shut up a desart Shoar to drowning Men, And drives us to the cruel Seas agen! If our hard Fortune no Compassion draws, Nor hospitable Rights, nor human Laws,Line 765 The Gods are just, and will revenge our Cause. Aeneas was our Prince, a juster Lord, Or nobler Warriour, never drew a Sword: Observant of the Right, religious of his Word. If yet he lives, and draws this vital Air:Line 770 Nor we his Friends of Safety shall despair; Nor you, great Queen, these Offices repent, Which he will equal, and perhaps prevent. We want not Cities, nor Sicilian Coasts, Where King Acestes Trojan Lineage boasts.Line 775 Permit our Ships a Shelter on your Shoars, Refitted from your Woods with Planks and Oars; That if our Prince be safe, we may renew Our destin'd Course, and Italy pursue. But if, O best of Men! the Fates ordainLine 780 That thou art swallow'd in the Lybian Main: And if our young Iulus be no more, Dismiss our Navy from your friendly Shoar. That we to good Acestes may return, And with our Friends our common Losses mourn.Line 785

Thus spoke Ilioneus; the Trojan Crew With Cries and Clamours his Request renew. The modest Queen a while, with down-cast Eyes, Ponder'd the Speech; then briefly thus replies.

Trojans dismiss your Fears: my cruel Fate,Line 790 And doubts attending an unsetled State, Force me to guard my Coast, from Foreign Foes. Who has not heard the story of your Woes? The Name and Fortune of your Native Place, The Fame and Valour of the Phrygian Race?Line 795 We Tyrians are not so devoid of Sense, Nor so remote from Phoebus influence. Whether to Latian Shores your Course is bent, Or driv'n by Tempest's from your first intent, You seek the good Acestes Government;Line 800 Your Men shall be receiv'd, your Fleet repair'd, And sail, with Ships of Convoy for your guard; Or, wou'd you stay, and joyn your friendly Pow'rs, To raise and to defend the Tyrian Tow'rs; My Wealth, my City, and my Self are yours.Line 805 And wou'd to Heav'n the Storm, you felt, wou'd bring On Carthaginian Coasts your wand'ring King. My People shall, by my Command, explore The Ports and Creeks of ev'ry winding shore; And Towns, and Wilds, and shady Woods, in questLine 810 Of so renown'd and so desir'd a Guest. Rais'd in his Mind the Trojan Heroe stood, And long'd to break from out his Ambient Cloud; Achates found it; and thus urg'd his way; From whence, O Goddess born, this long delay?Line 815 What more can you desire, your Welcome sure, Your Fleet in safety, and your Friends secure? One only wants; and him we saw in vain Oppose the Storm, and swallow'd in the Main. Line 820

Orontes in his Fate our Forfeit paid,Line 820 The rest agrees with what your Mother said. Scarce had he spoken, when the Cloud gave way, The Mists flew upward, and dissolv'd in day. The Trojan Chief appear'd in open sight, August in Visage, and serenely bright.Line 825 His Mother Goddess, with her hands Divine, Had form'd his Curling Locks, and made his Temples shine: And giv'n his rowling Eyes a sparkling grace; And breath'd a youthful vigour on his Face: Like polish'd Iv'ry, beauteous to behold,Line 830 Or Parian Marble, when enchas'd in Gold: Thus radiant from the circling Cloud he broke; And thus with manly modesty he spoke.

He whom you seek am I: by Tempests tost, And sav'd from Shipwreck on your Lybian Coast:Line 835 Presenting, gracious Queen, before your Throne, A Prince that ows his Life to you alone. Fair Majesty, the Refuge and Redress Of those whom Fate pursues, and Wants oppress. You, who your pious Offices employLine 840 To save the Reliques of abandon'd Troy; Receive the Shipwreck'd on your friendly Shore, With hospitable Rites relieve the Poor: Associate in your Town a wandring Train, And Strangers in your Palace entertain.Line 845 What thanks can wretched Fugitives return, Who scatter'd thro' the World in exile mourn? The Gods, (if Gods to Goodness are inclin'd,) If Acts of mercy touch their Heav'nly Mind; And more than all the Gods, your gen'rous heart,Line 850 Conscious of worth, requite its own desert! In you this Age is happy, and this Earth: And Parents more than Mortal gave you birth.

[illustration]

To the Right Hon^ble: Elizabeth Countess Dowager of Winchelsea &^ct.

AE. 1. l: 875.

While rowling Rivers into Seas shall run, And round the space of Heav'n the radiant Sun;Line 855 While Trees the Mountain tops with Shades supply, Your Honour, Name, and Praise shall never dye. What e're abode my Fortune has assign'd, Your Image shall be present in my Mind. Thus having said; he turn'd with pious hast,Line 860 And joyful his expecting Friends embrac'd: With his right hand Ilioneus was grac'd, Serestus with his left; then to his breast Cloanthus and the Noble Gyas prest; And so by turns descended to the rest.Line 865

The Tyrian Queen stood fix'd upon his Face, Pleas'd with his motions, ravish'd with his grace: Admir'd his Fortunes, more admir'd the Man; Then recollected stood; and thus began.

What Fate, O Goddess born, what angry Pow'rsLine 870 Have cast you shipwrack'd on our barren Shores? Are you the great Aeneas, known to Fame, Who from Coelestial Seed your Lineage claim! The same Aeneas whom fair Venus bore To fam'd Anchises on th' Idaean Shore?Line 875 It calls into my mind, tho' then a Child, When Teucer came from Salamis exil'd; And sought my Father's aid, to be restor'd: My Father Belus then with Fire and Sword Invaded Cyprus, made the Region bare,Line 880 And, Conqu'ring, finish'd the successful War. From him the Trojan Siege I understood, The Grecian Chiefs, and your Illustrious Blood. Your Foe himself the Dardan Valour prais'd, And his own Ancestry from Trojans rais'd.Line 885 Enter, my Noble Guest; and you shall find, If not a costly welcome, yet a kind.

For I my self, like you, have been distress'd; Till Heav'n afforded me this place of rest. Like you an Alien in a Land unknown;Line 890 I learn to pity Woes, so like my own. She said, and to the Palace led her Guest, Then offer'd Incense, and proclaim'd a Feast. Nor yet less careful for her absent Friends, Twice ten fat Oxen to the Ships she sends:Line 895 Besides a hundred Boars, a hundred Lambs, With bleating cries, attend their Milky Dams. And Jars of gen'rous Wine, and spacious Bowls, She gives to chear the Sailors drooping Souls. Now Purple Hangings cloath the Palace Walls,Line 900 And sumptuous Feasts are made in splendid Halls: On Tyrian Carpets, richly wrought, they dine; With loads of Massy Plate the Side-boards shine. And Antique Vafes all of Gold Emboss'd; (The Gold it self inferiour to the Cost:)Line 905 Of curious Work, where on the sides were seen The Fights and Figures of Illustrious Men; From their first Founder to the present Queen.

The Good Aeneas, whose Paternal Care Iulus absence could no longer bear,Line 910 Dispatch'd Achates to the Ships in hast, To give a glad Relation of the past; And, fraught with precious Gifts, to bring the Boy Snatch'd from the Ruins of unhappy Troy: A Robe of Tissue, stiff with golden Wire;Line 915 An upper Vest, once Hellen's rich Attire; From Argos by the fam'd Adultress brought, With Golden flow'rs and winding foliage wrought; Her Mother Laeda's Present, when she came To ruin Troy, and set the World on flame.Line 920

The Scepter Priam's eldest Daughter bore, Her orient Necklace, and the Crown she wore; Of double texture, glorious to behold; One order set with Gems, and one with Gold. Instructed thus, the wise Achates goes:Line 925 And in his diligence his duty shows.

But Venus, anxious for her Son's Affairs, New Councils tryes; and new Designs prepares: That Cupid should assume the Shape and Face Of sweet Ascanius, and the sprightly grace:Line 930 Shou'd bring the Prefents, in her Nephews stead, And in Eliza's Veins the gentle Poison shed. For much she fear'd the Tyrians, double tongu'd, And knew the Town to Juno's care belong'd. These thoughts by Night her Golden Slumbers broke;Line 935 And thus alarm'd, to winged Love she spoke. My Son, my strength, whose mighty Pow'r alone Controuls the Thund'rer, on his awful Throne; To thee thy much afflicted Mother flies, And on thy Succour, and thy Faith relies.Line 940 Thou know'st, my Son, how Jove's revengeful Wife, By force and Fraud, attempts thy Brother's life. And often hast thou mourn'd with me his Pains: Him Dido now with Blandishment detains; But I suspect the Town where Juno reigns.Line 945 For this, 'tis needful to prevent her Art, And fire with Love the proud Phoenician's heart. A Love so violent, so fond, so sure, That neither Age can change, nor Art can cure. How this may be perform'd, now take my mind:Line 950 Ascanius, by his Father is design'd To come, with Presents, laden from the Port, To gratifie the Queen, and gain the Court.

I mean to plunge the Boy in pleasing Sleep, And, ravish'd, in Idalian Bow'rs to keep;Line 955 Or high Cythaera: That the sweet Deceipt May pass unseen, and none prevent the Cheat, Take thou his Form and Shape. I beg the Grace But only for a Night's revolving Space; Thy self a Boy, assume a Boy's dissembled Face.Line 960 That when amidst the fervour of the Feast, The Tyrian hugs, and fonds thee on her Breast, And with sweet Kisses in her Arms constrains, Thou may'st infuse thy Venom in her Veins. The God of Love obeys, and sets asideLine 965 His Bow, and Quiver, and his plumy Pride: He walks Iulus in his Mother's Sight, And in the sweet Resemblance takes Delight.

The Goddess then to young Ascanius flies, And in a pleasing Slumber seals his Eyes;Line 970 Lull'd in her Lap, amidst a Train of Loves, She gently bears him to her blissful Groves: Then with a Wreath of Myrtle crowns his Head, And softly lays him on a flow'ry Bed. Cupid mean time assum'd his Form and Face,Line 975 Foll'wing Achates with a shorter Pace; And brought the Gifts. The Queen, already sate Amidst the Trojan Lords, in shining State, High on a Golden Bed: Her Princely Guest Was next her side, in order sate the rest.Line 980 Then Canisters with Bread are heap'd on high; Th' Attendants Water for their Hands supply; And having wash'd, with silken Towels dry. Next fifty Handmaids in long order bore The Censers, and with Fumes the Gods adore.Line 985 Then Youths, and Virgins twice as many, join To place the Dishes, and to serve the Wine.

[illustration]

To the most Hon^ble. Ursula Marchioness of Normaneby

AE. 1. l 995

The Tyrian Train, admitted to the Feast, Approach, and on the painted Couches rest. All on the Trojan Gifts, with Wonder gaze;Line 990 But view the beauteous Boy with more amaze. His Rosy-colour'd Cheeks, his radiant Eyes, His Motions, Voice, and Shape, and all the God's disguise. Nor pass unprais'd the Vest and Veil Divine, Which wand'ring Foliage and rich Flow'rs entwine.Line 995 But far above the rest, the Royal Dame, (Already doom'd to Love's disastrous Flame;) With Eyes insatiate, and tumultuous Joy, Beholds the Presents, and admires the Boy. The guileful God, about his Father long,Line 1000 With Children's play, and false Embraces hung; Then sought the Queen: She took him to her Arms, With greedy Pleasure, and devour'd his Charms. Unhappy Dido little thought what Guest, How dire a God she drew so near her Breast.Line 1005 But he, not mindless of his Mother's Pray'r, Works in the pliant Bosom of the Fair; And moulds her Heart anew, and blots her former Care. The dead is to the living Love resign'd, And all Aeneas enters in her Mind.Line 1010

Now, when the Rage of Hunger was appeas'd, The Meat remov'd, and ev'ry Guest was pleas'd; The Golden Bowls with sparkling Wine are crown'd, And through the Palace chearful Cries resound. From gilded Roofs depending Lamps displayLine 1015 Nocturnal Beams, that emulate the Day. A Golden Bowl, that shone with Gems Divine, The Queen commanded to be crown'd with Wine; The Bowl that Belus us'd, and all the Tyrian Line. Then, Silence through the Hall proclaim'd, she spoke:Line 1020 O hospitable Jove! we thus invoke,

With solemn Rites, thy sacred Name and Pow'r! Bless to both Nations this auspicious Hour. So may the Tojan and the Tyrian Line, In lasting Concord, from this Day combine.Line 1025 Thou, Bacchus, God of Joys and friendly Cheer, And gracious Juno, both be present here: And you, my Lords of Tyre, your Vows address To Heav'n with mine, to ratifie the Peace. The Goblet then she took, with Nectar crown'd,Line 1030 (Sprinkling the first Libations on the Ground,) And rais'd it to her Mouth with sober Grace, Then sipping, offer'd to the next in place. 'Twas Bitias whom she call'd, a thirsty Soul, He took the Challenge, and embrac'd the Bowl:Line 1035 With Pleasure swill'd the Gold, nor ceas'd to draw, 'Till he the bottom of the Brimmer saw. The Goblet goes around: Iopas brought His Golden Lyre, and sung what ancient Atlas taught. The various Labours of the wand'ring Moon,Line 1040 And whence proceed th' Eclipses of the Sun. Th' Original of Men, and Beasts; and whence The Rains arise, and Fires their Warmth dispence; And fix'd, and erring Stars, dispose their Influence. What shakes the solid Earth, what Cause delaysLine 1045 The Summer Nights, and shortens Winter Days. With Peals of Shouts the Tyrians praise the Song; Those Peals are echo'd by the Trojan Throng. Th' unhappy Queen with Talk prolong'd the Night, And drank large Draughts of Love with vast Delight.Line 1050 Of Priam much enquir'd, of Hector more; Then ask'd what Arms the swarthy Memnon wore; What Troops he landed on the Trojan Shore. The Steeds of Di'mede vary'd the Discourse, And fierce Achilles, with his matchless Force.Line 1055

At length, as Fate and her ill Stars requir'd, To hear the Series of the War desir'd. Relate at large, my God-like Guest, she said, The Grecian Stratagems, the Town betray'd; The fatal Issue of so long a War,Line 1060 Your Flight, your Wand'rings, and your Woes declare. For since on ev'ry Sea, on ev'ry Coast, Your Men have been distress'd, your Navy tost, Sev'n times the Sun has either Tropick view'd, The Winter banish'd, and the Spring renew'd.Line 1065

The Second Book of the Aeneis.

The Argument.

Aeneas relates how the City of Troy was taken, after a Ten Years Siege, by the Treachery of Sinon, and the Stratagem of a wooden Horse. He declares the fixt Resolution he had taken not to survive the Ruins of his Country, and the various Adventures he met with in the De∣fence of it: at last having been before advis'd by Hector's Ghost, and now by the Appearance of his Mother Venus, he is prevail'd upon to leave the Town, and settle his Houshold-Gods in another Country. in order to this, he carries off his Father on his Shoulders, and leads his little Son by the Hand, his Wife following him behind. When he comes to the Place appointed for the general Rendevouze, he finds a great Confluence of People, but misses his Wife, whose Ghost after∣wards appears to him, and tells him the Land which was design'd for him.

ALL were attentive to the God-like Man; When from the lofty Couch he thus began. Great Queen, what you command me to relate, Renews the sad remembrance of our Fate. An Empire from its old Foundations rent,Line 5 And ev'ry Woe the Trojans underwent: A Peopl'd City made a Desart Place; All that I saw, and part of which I was: Not ev'n the hardest of our Foes cou'd hear, Nor stern Ulysses tell without a Tear.Line 10 And now the latter Watch of wasting Night, And setting Stars to kindly Rest invite. But since you take such Int'rest in our Woe, And Troy's disast'rous end desire to know: I will restrain my Tears, and briefly tellLine 15 What in our last and fatal Night befel.

By Destiny compell'd, and in Despair, The Greeks grew weary of the tedious War:

[illustration]

To y^e most Illustrious Prince Charles Duke of Somerset, Knight of y^e most Noble Order of y^e Garter.

AE. 2. l: 1.

And by Minerva's Aid a Fabrick rear'd, Which like a Steed of monstrous height appear'd;Line 20 The Sides were planck'd with Pine, they feign'd it made For their Return, and this the Vow they paid. Thus they pretend, but in the hollow Side, Selected Numbers of their Souldiers hide: With inward Arms the dire Machine they load,Line 25 With Iron Bowels stuff the dark Abode. In sight of Troy lies Tenedos, an Isle, (While Fortune did on Priam's Empire smile) Renown'd for Wealth, but since a faithless Bay, Where Ships expos'd to Wind and Weather lay.Line 30 There was their Fleet conceal'd: We thought for Greece Their Sails were hoisted, and our Fears release. The Trojans coop'd within their Walls so long, Unbar their Gates, and issue in a Throng, Like swarming Bees, and with Delight surveyLine 35 The Camp deserted, where the Grecians lay: The Quarters of the sev'ral Chiefs they show'd, Here Phoenix, here Achilles made abode, Here join'd the Battels, there the Navy rode. Part on the Pile their wond'ring Eyes employ,Line 40 (The Pile by Pallas rais'd to ruin Troy.) Thymaetes first ('tis doubtful whether hir'd, Or so the Trojan Destiny requir'd) Mov'd that the Ramparts might be broken down, To lodge the fatal Engine in the Town.Line 45 But Capys, and the rest of sounder Mind, The fatal Present to the Flames design'd; Or to the watry deep: At least to bore The hollow sides, and hidden Frauds explore: The giddy Vulgar, as their Fancies guide,Line 50 With Noise say nothing, and in parts divide.

Iaocoon, follow'd by a num'rous Crowd, Ran from the Fort; and cry'd, from far, aloud; O wretched Country-men! what Fury reigns? What more than Madness has possess'd your Brains?Line 55 Think you the Grecians from your Coasts are gone, And are Ulysses Arts no better known? This hollow Fabrick either must inclose, Within its blind Recess, our secret Foes; Or 'tis an Engine rais'd above the Town,Line 60 T' o'relook the Walls, and then to batter down. Somewhat is sure design'd; by Fraud or Force; Trust not their Presents, nor admit the Horse. Thus having said, against the Steed he threw His forceful Spear, which, hissing as it flew,Line 65 Pierc'd through the yielding Planks of jointed Wood, And trembling in the hollow Belly stood. The sides transpierc'd, return a ratling Sound, And Groans of Greeks inclos'd come issuing through the Wound. And had not Heav'n the fall of Troy design'd,Line 70 Or had not Men been fated to be blind, Enough was said and done, t' inspire a better Mind: Then had our Lances pierc'd the treach'rous Wood, And Ilian Tow'rs, and Priam's Empire stood. Mean time, with Shouts, the Trojan Shepherds bring A captive Greek in Bands, before the King:Line 75 Taken, to take; who made himself their Prey, T' impose on their Belief, and Troy betray. Fix'd on his Aim, and obstinately bent To die undaunted, or to circumvent. About the Captive, tides of Trojans flow;Line 80 All press to see, and some insult the Foe. Line 85

Now hear how well the Greeks their Wiles disguis'd,Line 85 Behold a Nation in a Man compris'd. Trembling the Miscreant stood, unarm'd and bound; He star'd, and rowl'd his hagger'd Eyes around: Then said, Alas! what Earth remains, what Sea Is open to receive unhappy me!Line 90 What Fate a wretched Fugitive attends, Scorn'd by my Foes, abandon'd by my Friends. He said, and sigh'd, and cast a ruful Eye: Our Pity kindles, and our Passions dye. We chear the Youth to make his own Defence,Line 95 And freely tell us what he was, and whence: What News he cou'd impart, we long to know, And what to credit from a captive Foe.

His fear at length dismiss'd, he said, what e're My Fate ordains, my Words shall be sincere:Line 100 I neither can, nor dare my Birth disclaim, Greece is my Country, Sinon is my Name: Though plung'd by Fortune's Pow'r in Misery, 'Tis not in Fortune's Pow'r to make me lye. If any chance has hither brought the NameLine 105 Of Palamedes, not unknown to Fame, Who suffer'd from the Malice of the times; Accus'd and sentenc'd for pretended Crimes: Because these fatal Wars he would prevent; Whose Death the wretched Greeks too late lament;Line 110 Me, then a Boy, my Father, poor and bare Of other Means, committed to his Care: His Kinsman and Companion in the War. While Fortune favour'd, while his Arms support The Cause, and rul'd the Counsels of the Court,Line 115 I made some figure there; nor was my Name Obscure, nor I without my share of Fame.

But when Ulysses, with fallacious Arts, Had made Impression in the Peoples Hearts; And forg'd a Treason in my Patron's Name,Line 120 (I speak of things too far divulg'd by Fame) My Kinsman fell; then I, without support, In private mourn'd his Loss, and left the Court. Mad as I was, I could not bear his Fate With silent Grief, but loudly blam'd the State:Line 125 And curs'd the direful Author of my Woes. 'Twas told again, and hence my Ruin rose. I threatn'd, if indulgent Heav'n once more Wou'd land me safely on my Native Shore, His Death with double Vengeance to restore.Line 130 This mov'd the Murderer's Hate, and soon ensu'd Th' Effects of Malice from a Man so proud. Ambiguous Rumors thro the Camp he spread, And sought, by Treason, my devoted Head: New Crimes invented, left unturn'd no Stone,Line 135 To make my Guilt appear, and hide his own. 'Till Calchas was by Force and Threatning wrought: But why—Why dwell I on that anxious Thought? If on my Nation just Revenge you seek, And 'tis t' appear a Foe, t' appear a Greek;Line 140 Already you my Name and Country know, Asswage your thirst of Blood, and strike the Blow: My Death will both the Kingly Brothers please, And set insatiate Ithacus at ease. This fair unfinish'd Tale, these broken starts,Line 145 Rais'd expectations in our longing Hearts; Unknowing as we were in Grecian Arts. His former trembling once again renew'd, With acted Fear, the Villain thus pursu'd.

Long had the Grecians (tir'd with fruitless Care,Line 150 And weary'd with an unsuccessful War,)

Resolv'd to raise the Siege, and leave the Town; And had the Gods permitted, they had gone. But oft the Wintry Seas, and Southern Winds, Withstood their passage home, and chang'd their Minds.Line 155 Portents and Prodigies their Souls amaz'd; But most, when this stupendous Pile was rais'd. Then flaming Meteors, hung in Air, were seen, And Thunders ratled through a Skie serene: Dismay'd, and fearful of some dire Event,Line 160 Eurypylus, t'enquire their Fate, was sent; He from the Gods this dreadful Answer brought; O Grecians, when the Trojan Shores you sought, Your Passage with a Virgin's Blood was bought: So must your safe Return be bought again;Line 165 And Grecian Blood, once more attone the Main. The spreading Rumour round the People ran; All fear'd, and each believ'd himself the Man. Ulysses took th'advantage of their fright; Call'd Calchas, and produc'd in open sight:Line 170 Than bade him name the Wretch, ordain'd by Fate, The Publick Victim, to redeem the State. Already some presag'd the dire Event, And saw what Sacrifice Ulysses meant. For twice five days the good old Seer withstoodLine 175 Th' intended Treason, and was dumb to Blood. Till Tir'd with endless Clamours, and pursute Of Ithacus, he stood no longer Mute: But, as it was agreed, pronounc'd, that I Was destin'd by the wrathful Gods to die.Line 180 All prais'd the Sentence, pleas'd the storm should fall On one alone, whose Fury threatn'd all. The dismal day was come, the Priests prepare Their leaven'd Cakes; and Fillets for my Hair. Line 185

I follow'd Natur's Laws, and must avowLine 185 I broke my Bonds, and fled the fatal blow. Hid in a weedy Lake all Night I lay, Secure of Safety when they sail'd away. But now what further Hopes for me remain, To see my Friends or Native Soil again?Line 190 My tender Infants, or my careful Sire; Whom they returning will to Death require? Will perpetrate on them their first Design, And take the forfeit of their heads for mine? Which, O if Pity mortal Minds can move!Line 195 If there be Faith below, or Gods above! If Innocence and Truth can claim desert, Ye Trojans from an injur'd Wretch avert. False Tears true Pity move: the King Commands To loose his Fetters, and unbind his hands:Line 200 Then adds these friendly words; dismiss thy Fears, Forget the Greeks, be mine as thou wert theirs. But truly tell, was it for Force or Guile, Or some Religious End, you rais'd the Pile? Thus said the King. He full of fraudful Arts,Line 205 This well invented Tale for Truth imparts. Ye Lamps of Heav'n! he said, and lifted high His hands now free, thou venerable Sky, Inviolable Pow'rs, ador'd with dread, Ye fatal Fillets, that once bound this head,Line 210 Ye sacred Altars, from whose flames I fled! Be all of you adjur'd; and grant I may, Without a Crime, th' ungrateful Greeks betray! Reveal the Secrets of the guilty State, And justly punish whom I justly hate!Line 215 But you, O King, preseve the Faith you gave, If I to save my self your Empire save.

The Grecian Hopes, and all th' Attempts they made, Were only founded on Minerva's Aid. But from the time when impious Diomede,Line 220 And false Ulysses, that inventive Head, Her fatal Image from the Temple drew, The sleeping Guardians of the Castle slew, Her Virgin Statue with their bloody Hands Polluted, and prophan'd her holy Bands:Line 225 From thence the Tide of Fortune left their Shore, And ebb'd much faster than it flow'd before: Their Courage languish'd, as their Hopes decay'd, And Pallas, now averse, refus'd her Aid. Nor did the Goddess doubtfully declareLine 230 Her alter'd Mind, and alienated Care: When first her fatal Image touch'd the Ground, She sternly cast her glaring Eyes around; That sparkl'd as they rowl'd, and seem'd to threat: Her Heav'nly Limbs distill'd a briny Sweat.Line 235 Thrice from the Ground she leap'd, was seen to wield Her brandish'd Lance, and shake her horrid Shield. Then Calchas bad our Host for flight prepare, And hope no Conquest from the tedious War: 'Till first they sail'd for Greece; with Pray'rs besoughtLine 240 Her injur'd Pow'r, and better Omens brought. And now their Navy ploughs the wat'ry Main, Yet, soon expect it on your Shoars again, With Pallas pleas'd; as Calchas did ordain. But first, to reconcile the blue-ey'd Maid,Line 245 For her stoln Statue, and her Tow'r betray'd; Warn'd by the Seer, to her offended Name We rais'd, and dedicate this wond'rous Frame: So lofty, lest through your forbidden Gates It pass, and intercept our better Fates.Line 250

For, once admitted there, our hopes are lost; And Troy may then a new Palladium boast. For so Religion and the Gods ordain; That if you violate with Hands prophane Minerva's Gift, your Town in Flames shall burn,Line 255 (Which Omen, O ye Gods, on Grecia turn!) But if it climb, with your assisting Hands, The Trojan Walls, and in the City stands; Then Troy shall Argos and Mycenae burn, And the reverse of Fate on us return.Line 260

With such Deceits he gain'd their easie Hearts, Too prone to credit his perfidious Arts. What Diomede, nor Thetis greater Son, A thousand Ships, nor ten years Siege had done: False Tears and fawning Words the City won.Line 265 A greater Omen, and of worse portent, Did our unwary Minds with fear torment: Concurring to produce the dire Event. Laocoon, Neptune's Priest by Lot that Year, With solemn pomp then sacrific'd a Steer.Line 270 When, dreadful to behold, from Sea we spy'd Two Serpents rank'd abreast, the Seas divide, And smoothly sweep along the swelling Tide. Their flaming Crests above the Waves they show, Their Bellies seem to burn the Seas below:Line 275 Their speckled Tails advance to steer their Course, And on the sounding Shoar the flying Billows force. And now the Strand, and now the Plain they held, Their ardent Eyes with bloody streaks were fill'd: Their nimble Tongues they brandish'd as they came,Line 280 And lick'd their hissing Jaws, that sputter'd Flame. We fled amaz'd; their destin'd Way they take, And to Laocoon and his Children make:

[illustration]

To the Right Hon^ble: James Earle of Salisbury &

AE. 2. l. 290.

And first around the tender Boys they wind, Then with their sharpen'd Fangs their Limbs and Bodies grind.Line 285 The wretched Father, running to their Aid With pious Haste, but vain, they next invade: Twice round his waste their winding Volumes rowl'd, And twice about his gasping Throat they fold. The Priest, thus doubly choak'd, their Crests divide,Line 290 And tow'ring o're his Head, in Triumph ride. With both his Hands he labours at the Knots, His Holy Fillets the blue Venom blots: His roaring fills the flitting Air around. Thus, when an Oxe receives a glancing Wound,Line 295 He breaks his Bands, the fatal Altar flies, And with loud Bellowings breaks the yielding Skies. Their Tasks perform'd, the Serpents quit their prey, And to the Tow'r of Pallas make their way: Couch'd at her Feet, they lie protected there,Line 300 By her large Buckler, and protended Spear. Amazement seizes all; the gen'ral Cry Proclaims Laocoon justly doom'd to die. Whose hand the Will of Pallas had withstood, And dar'd to violate the Sacred Wood.Line 305 All vote t' admit the Steed, that Vows be paid, And Incense offer'd to th' offended Maid. A spacious Breach is made, the Town lies bare, Some hoisting Leavers, some the Wheels prepare, And fasten to the Horses Feet: the restLine 310 With Cables haul along th' unweildy Beast. Each on his Fellow for Assistance calls: At length the fatal Fabrick mounts the Walls, Big with Destruction. Boys with Chaplets crown'd, And Quires of Virgins sing, and dance around.Line 315 Thus rais'd aloft, and then descending down, It enters o're our Heads, and threats the Town.

O sacred City! built by Hands Divine! O valiant Heroes of the Trojan Line! Four times he struck; as oft the clashing soundLine 320 Of Arms was heard, and inward Groans rebound. Yet mad with Zeal, and blinded with our Fate, We hawl along the Horse, in solemn state; Then place the dire Portent within the Tow'r. Cassandra cry'd, and curs'd th' unhappy Hour;Line 325 Foretold our Fate; but by the Gods decree All heard, and none believ'd the Prophecy. With Branches we the Fanes adorn, and wast In jollity, the Day ordain'd to be the last. Mean time the rapid Heav'ns rowl'd down the Light,Line 330 And on the shaded Ocean rush'd the Night: Our Men secure, nor Guards nor Centries held, But easie Sleep their weary Limbs compell'd. The Grecians had embark'd their Naval Pow'rs From Tenedos, and sought our well known Shoars:Line 335 Safe under Covert of the silent Night, And guided by th' Imperial Galley's light. When Sinon, favour'd by the Partial Gods, Unlock'd the Horse, and op'd his dark abodes: Restor'd to vital Air our hidden Foes,Line 340 Who joyful from their long Confinement rose. Tysander bold, and Sthenelus their Guide, And dire Ulysses down the Cable slide: Then Thoas, Athamas, and Pyrrhus hast; Nor was the Podalyrian Heroe last:Line 345 Nor injur'd Menelaus, nor the fam'd Epeus, who the fatal Engine fram'd. A nameless Crowd succeed; their Forces join T' invade the Town, oppress'd with Sleep and Wine. Those few they find awake, first meet their Fate,Line 350 Then to their Fellows they unbar the Gate.

'Twas in the dead of Night, when Sleep repairs Our Bodies worn with Toils, our Minds with Cares, When Hector's Ghost before my sight appears: A bloody Shrowd he seem'd, and bath'd in Tears.Line 355 Such as he was, when, by foul Treason slain, Thessalian Coursers drag'd him o're the Plain. Swoln were his Feet, as when the Thongs were thrust Through the bor'd holes, his Body black with dust. Unlike that Hector, who return'd from toilsLine 360 Of War Triumphant, in Aeacian Spoils: Or him, who made the fainting Greeks retire, And lanch'd against their Navy Phrygian Fire. His Hair and Beard stood stiffen'd with his gore; And all the Wounds he for his Country bore,Line 365 Now stream'd afresh, and with new Purple ran: I wept to see the visionary Man: And while my Trance continu'd, thus began. O Light of Trojans, and Support of Troy, Thy Father's Champion, and thy Country's Joy!Line 370 O, long expected by thy Friends! from whence Art thou so late return'd for our Defence? Do we behold thee, weary'd as we are, With length of Labours, and with Toils of War? After so many Fun'rals of thy own,Line 375 Art thou restor'd to thy declining Town? But say, what Wounds are these? What new Disgrace Deforms the Manly Features of thy Face? To this the Spectre no Reply did frame; But answer'd to the Cause for which he came:Line 380 And, groaning from the bottom of his Breast, This Warning, in these mournful Words express'd. O Goddess-born! escape, by timely flight, The Flames, and Horrors of this fatal Night. Line 385

The Foes already have possess'd the Wall,Line 385 Troy nods from high, and totters to her Fall. Enough is paid to Priam's Royal Name, More than enough to Duty and to Fame. If by a Mortal Hand my Father's Throne Cou'd be defended, 'twas by mine alone:Line 390 Now Troy to thee commends her future State, And gives her Gods Companions of thy Fate: From their assistance happyer Walls expect, Which, wand'ring long, at last thou shalt erect. He said, and brought me, from their blest abodes,Line 395 The venerable Statues of the Gods: With ancient Vesta from the sacred Quire, The Wreaths and Relicks of th' Immortal Fire.

Now peals of Shouts come thund'ring from afar, Cries, Threats, and loud Laments, and mingl'd War:Line 400 The Noise approaches, though our Palace stood Aloof from Streets, encompass'd with a Wood. Louder, and yet more loud, I hear th' Allarms Of Human Cries distinct, and clashing Arms: Fear broke my Slumbers; I no longer stay,Line 405 But mount the Terrass, thence the Town survey, And hearken what the frightful Sounds convey. Thus when a flood of Fire by Winds is born, Crackling it rowls, and mows the standing Corn: Or Deluges, descending on the Plains,Line 410 Sweep o're the yellow Year, destroy the pains Of lab'ring Oxen, and the Peasant's gains: Unroot the Forrest Oaks, and bear away Flocks, Folds, and Trees, an undistinguish'd Prey. The Shepherd climbs the Cliff, and sees from far,Line 415 The wastful Ravage of the wat'ry War. Then Hector's Faith was manifestly clear'd; The Grecian Frauds in open light appear'd.

The Palace of Deiphobus ascends In smoaky Flames, and catches on his Friends.Line 420 Ucalegon burns next; the Seas are bright With splendor, not their own; and shine with Trojan light. New Clamours, and new Clangors now arise, The sound of Trumpets mix'd with fighting cries. With frenzy seiz'd, I run to meet th' Alarms,Line 425 Resolv'd on death, resolv'd to die in Arms. But first to gather Friends, with them t'oppose, If Fortune favour'd, and repel the Foes. Spurr'd by my courage, by my Country fir'd; With sense of Honour, and Revenge inspir'd.Line 430

Pantheus, Apollo's Priest, a sacred Name, Had scap'd the Grecian Swords, and pass'd the Flame; With Reliques loaden, to my Doors he fled, And by the hand his tender Grand-son led. What hope, O Pantheus! whither can we run?Line 435 Where make a stand? and what may yet be done? Scarce had I said, when Pantheus, with a groan, Troy is no more, and Ilium was a Town! The fatal Day, th' appointed Hour is come, When wrathful Jove's irrevocable doomLine 440 Transfers the Trojan State to Grecian hands. The Fire consumes the Town, the Foe commands: And armed Hosts, an unexpected Force, Break from the Bowels of the Fatal Horse. Within the Gates, proud Sinon throws aboutLine 445 The flames, and Foes for entrance press without. With thousand others, whom I fear to name, More than from Argos, or Mycenae came. To sev'ral Posts their Parties they divide; Some block the narrow Streets, some scour the wide.Line 450 The bold they kill, th' unwary they surprise; Who fights finds Death, and Death finds him who flies.

The Warders of the Gate but scarce maintain Th' unequal Combat, and resist in vain. I Heard; and Heav'n, that well-born Souls inspires,Line 455 Prompts me, thro' lifted Swords, and rising Fires To run, where clashing Arms and Clamour calls, And rush undaunted to defend the Walls. Ripheus and Iph'itus by my side engage, For Valour one Renown'd, and one for Age.Line 460 Dymas and Hypanis by Moonlight knew My motions, and my Meen, and to my Party drew; With young Choroebus, who by Love was led To win Renown, and fair Cassandra's Bed; And lately brought his Troops to Priam's aid:Line 465 Forewarn'd in vain, by the Prophetic Maid. Whom, when I saw, resolv'd in Arms to fall, And that one Spirit animated all; Brave Souls, said I, but Brave, alas! in vain: Come, finish what our Cruel Fates ordain.Line 470 You see the desp'rate state of our Affairs; And Heav'ns protecting Pow'rs are deaf to Pray'rs. The passive Gods behold the Greeks defile Their Temples, and abandon to the Spoil Their own Abodes: we, feeble few, conspireLine 475 To save a sinking Town, involv'd in Fire. Then let us fall, but fall amidst our Foes, Despair of Life, the Means of Living shows. So fierce a Speech incourag'd their desire Of Death, and added fuel to their fire.Line 480

As hungry Wolves, with raging appetite, Scour thro' the fields, nor fear the stormy Night; Their Whelps at home expect the promis'd Food, And long to temper their dry Chaps in Blood: So rush'd we forth at once, resolv'd to die,Line 485 Resolv'd in Death the last Extreams to try.

We leave the narrow Lanes behind, and dare Th' unequal Combat in the publick Square: Night was our Friend, our Leader was Despair. What Tongue can tell the Slaughter of that Night?Line 490 What Eyes can weep the Sorrows and Affright! An ancient and imperial City falls, The Streets are fill'd with frequent Funerals: Houses and Holy Temples float in Blood, And hostile Nations make a common Flood.Line 495 Not only Trojans fall, but in their turn, The vanquish'd Triumph, and the Victors mourn. Ours take new Courage from Despair and Night; Confus'd the Fortune is, confus'd the Fight. All parts resound with Tumults, Plaints, and Fears,Line 500 And grisly Death in sundry shapes appears. Androgeos fell among us, with his Band, Who thought us Grecians newly come to Land: From whence, said he, my Friends this long delay? You loiter, while the Spoils are born away:Line 505 Our Ships are laden with the Trojan Store, And you like Truants come too late ashore. He said, but soon corrected his Mistake, Found, by the doubtful Answers which we make: Amaz'd, he wou'd have shun'd th' unequal Fight,Line 510 But we, more num'rous, intercept his flight. As when some Peasant in a bushy Brake, Has with unwary Footing press'd a Snake; He starts aside, astonish'd, when he spies His rising Crest, blue Neck, and rowling Eyes;Line 515 So from our Arms, surpriz'd Androgeos flies. In vain; for him and his we compass'd round, Possess'd with Fear, unknowing of the Ground; And of their Lives an easy Conquest found. Line 520

Thus Fortune on our first Endeavour smil'd:Line 520 Choraebus then, with youthful Hopes beguil'd, Swoln with Success, and of a daring Mind, This new Invention fatally design'd. My Friends, said he, since Fortune shows the way, 'Tis fit we shou'd th' auspicious Guide obey.Line 525 For what has she these Grecian Arms bestow'd, But their Destruction, and the Trojans good? Then change we Shields, and their Devices bear, Let Fraud supply the want of Force in War. They find us Arms; this said, himself he dress'dLine 530 In dead Androgeos's Spoils, his upper Vest, His painted Buckler, and his plumy Crest. Thus Ripheus, Dymas, all the Trojan Train Lay down their own Attire, and strip the slain. Mix'd with the Greeks, we go with ill Presage,Line 535 Flatter'd with hopes to glut our greedy Rage: Unknown, assaulting whom we blindly meet, And strew, with Grecian Carcasses, the Street. Thus while their stragling Parties we defeat, Some to the Shoar and safer Ships retreat:Line 540 And some oppress'd with more ignoble Fear, Remount the hollow Horse, and pant in secret there.

But ah! what use of Valour can be made, When Heav'ns propitious Pow'rs refuse their Aid! Behold the royal Prophetess, the FairLine 545 Cassandra, drag'd by her dishevel'd Hair; Whom not Minerva's Shrine, nor sacred Bands, In safety cou'd protect from sacrilegious Hands: On Heav'n she cast her Eyes, she sigh'd, she cry'd, ('Twas all she cou'd) her tender Arms were ty'd.Line 550 So sad a Sight Choraebus cou'd not bear, But fir'd with Rage, distracted with Despair;

[illustration]

To the Right Hon^ble. William OBryen Earle of Inchiquin in the Kingdom of Ireland &^ct

AE. 2. l: 545.

Amid the barb'rous Ravishers he flew: Our Leader's rash Example we pursue. But storms of Stones, from the proud Temple's height,Line 555 Pour down, and on our batter'd Helms alight. We from our Friends receiv'd this fatal Blow, Who thought us Grecians, as we seem'd in show. They aim at the mistaken Crests, from high, And ours beneath the pond'rous Ruin lie.Line 560 Then, mov'd with Anger and Disdain, to see Their Troops dispers'd, the Royal Virgin free: The Grecians rally, and their Pow'rs unite; With Fury charge us, and renew the Fight. The Brother-Kings with Ajax join their force,Line 565 And the whole Squadron of Thessalian Horse.

Thus, when the Rival Winds their Quarrel try, Contending for the Kingdom of the Skie; South, East, and West, on airy Coursers born, The Whirlwind gathers, and the Woods are torn:Line 570 Then Nereus strikes the deep, the Billows rise, And, mix'd with Ooze and Sand, pollute the Skies. The Troops we squander'd first, again appear From sev'ral Quarters, and enclose the Rear. They first observe, and to the rest betrayLine 575 Our diff'rent Speech; our borrow'd Arms survey. Oppress'd with odds, we fall; Choraebus first, At Pallas's Altar, by Peneleus pierc'd. Then Ripheus follow'd, in th'unequal Fight; Just of his Word, observant of the right;Line 580 Heav'n thought not so: Dymas their Fate attends, With Hypanis, mistaken by their Friends. Nor Pantheus, thee, thy Mitre nor the Bands Of awful Phoebus, sav'd from impious Hands. Ye Trojan Flames your Testimony bear,Line 585 What I perform'd, and what I suffer'd there:

No Sword avoiding in the fatal Strife, Expos'd to Death, and prodigal of Life. Witness, ye Heav'ns! I live not by my Fault, I strove to have deserv'd the Death I sought.Line 590 But when I cou'd not fight, and wou'd have dy'd, Born off to distance by the growing Tide, Old Iphitus and I were hurry'd thence, With Pelias wounded, and without Defence. New Clamors from th' invested Palace ring;Line 595 We run to die, or disengage the King. So hot th' Assault, so high the Tumult rose, While ours defend, and while the Greeks oppose; As all the Dardan and Argolick Race Had been contracted in that narrow Space:Line 600 Or as all Ilium else were void of Fear, And Tumult, War, and Slaughter only there. Their Targets in a Tortoise cast, the Foes Secure advancing, to the Turrets rose: Some mount the scaling Ladders, some more boldLine 605 Swerve upwards, and by Posts and Pillars hold: Their left hand gripes their Bucklers, in th' ascent, While with the right they seise the Battlement. From their demolish'd Tow'rs the Trojans throw Huge heaps of Stones, that falling, crush the Foe:Line 610 And heavy Beams, and Rafters from the sides, (Such Arms their last necessity provides:) And gilded Roofs come tumbling from on high, The marks of State, and ancient Royalty. The Guards below, fix'd in the Pass, attendLine 615 The Charge undaunted, and the Gate defend. Renew'd in Courage with recover'd Breath, A second time we ran to tempt our Death: To clear the Palace from the Foe, succeed The weary living, and revenge the dead.Line 620

A Postern-door, yet unobserv'd and free, Join'd by the length of a blind Gallery, To the King's Closet led; a way well known To Hector's Wife, while Priam held the Throne: Through which she brought Astyanax, unseen,Line 625 To chear his Grandsire, and his Grandsire's Queen. Through this we pass, and mount the Tow'r, from whence With unavailing Arms the Trojans make defence. From this the trembling King had oft descry'd The Grecian Camp, and saw their Navy ride.Line 630 Beams from its lofty height with Swords we hew; Then wrenching with our hands, th' Assault renew. And where the Rafters on the Columns meet, We push them headlong with our Arms and Feet. The Lightning flies not swifter than the Fall;Line 635 Nor Thunder louder than the ruin'd Wall: Down goes the top at once; the Greeks beneath Are piecemeal torn, or pounded into Death. Yet more succeed, and more to death are sent; We cease not from above, nor they below relent.Line 640 Before the Gate stood Pyrrhus, threat'ning loud, With glitt'ring Arms conspicuous in the Crowd. So shines, renew'd in Youth, the crested Snake, Who slept the Winter in a thorny Brake: And casting off his Slough, when Spring returns,Line 645 Now looks aloft, and with new Glory burns: Restor'd with pois'nous Herbs, his ardent sides Reflect the Sun, and rais'd on Spires he rides: High o're the Grass, hissing he rowls along, And brandishes by fits his sorky Tongue.Line 650 Proud Periphas, and fierce Automedon, His Father's Charioteer, together run To force the Gate: The Scyrian Infantry Rush on in Crowds, and the barr'd Passage free. Line 655

Ent'ring the Court, with Shouts the Skies they rend,Line 655 And flaming Firebrands to the Roofs ascend. Himself, among the foremost, deals his Blows, And with his Axe repeated Stroaks bestows On the strong Doors: then all their Shoulders ply, 'Till from the Posts the brazen Hinges fly.Line 660 He hews apace, the double Bars at length Yield to his Ax, and unresisted Strength. A mighty Breach is made; the Rooms conceal'd Appear, and all the Palace is reveal'd. The Halls of Audience, and of publick State,Line 665 And where the lonely Queen in secret sate. Arm'd Souldiers now by trembling Maids are seen, With not a Door, and scarce a Space between. The House is fill'd with loud Laments and Cries, And Shrieks of Women rend the vaulted Skies.Line 670 The fearful Matrons run from place to place, And kiss the Thresholds, and the Posts embrace. The fatal work inhuman Pyrrhus plies, And all his Father sparkles in his Eyes. Nor Bars, nor fighting Guards his force sustain;Line 675 The Bars are broken, and the Guards are slain. In rush the Greeks, and all the Apartments fill; Those few Defendants whom they find, they kill. Not with so fierce a Rage, the foaming Flood Roars, when he finds his rapid Course withstood:Line 680 Bears down the Dams with unresisted sway, And sweeps the Cattle and the Cots away. These Eyes beheld him, when he march'd between The Brother-Kings: I saw th' unhappy Queen, The hundred Wives, and where old Priam stood,Line 685 To stain his hallow'd Altar with his Blood. The fifty Nuptial Beds: (such Hopes had he, So large a Promise of a Progeny.)

The Posts of plated Gold, and hung with Spoils, Fell the Reward of the proud Victor's Toils.Line 690 Where e're the raging Fire had left a space, The Grecians enter, and possess the Place. Perhaps you may of Priam's Fate enquire. He, when he saw his Regal Town on fire, His ruin'd Palace, and his ent'ring Foes,Line 695 On ev'ry side inevitable woes; In Arms, disus'd, invests his Limbs decay'd Like them, with Age; a late and useless aid. His feeble shoulders scarce the weight sustain: Loaded, not arm'd, he creeps along, with pain;Line 700 Despairing of Success; ambitious to be slain! Uncover'd but by Heav'n, there stood in view An Altar; near the hearth a Lawrel grew; Dodder'd with Age, whose Boughs encompass round The Household Gods, and shade the holy Ground.Line 705 Here Hecuba, with all her helpless Train Of Dames, for shelter sought, but sought in vain. Driv'n like a Flock of Doves along the skie, Their Images they hugg, and to their Altars fly. The Queen, when she beheld her trembling Lord,Line 710 And hanging by his side a heavy Sword, What Rage, she cry'd, has seiz'd my Husband's mind; What Arms are these, and to what use design'd? These times want other aids: were Hector here, Ev'n Hector now in vain, like Priam wou'd appear.Line 715 With us, one common shelter thou shalt find, Or in one common Fate with us be join'd. She said, and with a last Salute embrac'd The poor old Man, and by the Lawrel plac'd. Behold Polites, one of Priam's Sons,Line 720 Pursu'd by Pyrrhus, there for safety runs.

Thro Swords, and Foes, amaz'd and hurt, he flies Through empty Courts, and open Galleries: Him Pyrrhus, urging with his Lance, pursues; And often reaches, and his thrusts renews.Line 725 The Youth transfix'd, with lamentable Cries Expires, before his wretched Parent's Eyes. Whom, gasping at his feet, when Priam saw, The Fear of death gave place to Nature's Law. And shaking more with Anger, than with Age,Line 730 The Gods, said He, requite thy brutal Rage: As sure they will, Barbarian, sure they must, If there be Gods in Heav'n, and Gods be just: Who tak'st in Wrongs an insolent delight; With a Son's death t'infect a Father's sight.Line 735 Not He, whom thou and lying Fame conspire To call thee his; Not He, thy vaunted Sire, Thus us'd my wretched Age: The Gods he fear'd, The Laws of Nature and of Nations heard. He chear'd my Sorrows, and for Sums of GoldLine 740 The bloodless Carcass of my Hector sold. Pity'd the Woes a Parent underwent, And sent me back in safety from his Tent.

This said, his feeble hand a Javelin threw, Which flutt'ring, seem'd to loiter as it flew:Line 745 Just, and but barely, to the Mark it held, And faintly tinckl'd on the Brazen Shield.

Then Pyrrhus thus: go thou from me to Fate; And to my Father my foul deeds relate. Now dye: with that he dragg'd the trembling Sire,Line 750 Slidd'ring through clotter'd Blood, and holy Mire, (The mingl'd Paste his murder'd Son had made,) Haul'd from beneath the violated Shade; And on the Sacred Pile, the Royal Victim laid.

[illustration]

To y^e Right Hon^ble Roger Earle of Orrery Baron of Broghill &^ct

AE. 2. l: 765.

His right Hand held his bloody Fauchion bare;Line 755 His left he twisted in his hoary Hair: Then, with a speeding Thrust, his Heart he found: The lukewarm Blood came rushing through the wound, And sanguine Streams distain'd the sacred Ground. Thus Priam fell: and shar'd one common FateLine 760 With Troy in Ashes, and his ruin'd State: He, who the Scepter of all Asia sway'd, Whom Monarchs like domestick Slaves obey'd, On the bleak Shoar now lies th' abandon'd King, * 1.1 A headless Carcass, and a nameless thing.Line 765

Then, not before, I felt my crudled Blood Congeal with Fear; my Hair with horror stood: My Father's Image fill'd my pious Mind; Lest equal Years might equal Fortune find. Again I thought on my forsaken Wife;Line 770 And trembl'd for my Son's abandon'd Life. I look'd about; but found my self alone: Deserted at my need, my Friends were gone. Some spent with Toil, some with Despair oppress'd, Leap'd headlong from the Heights; the Flames consum'd the (rest.Line 775 Thus, wand'ring in my way, without a Guide, The graceless Helen in the Porch I spy'd Of Vesta's Temple: there she lurk'd alone; Muffled she sate, and what she cou'd, unknown: But, by the Flames, that cast their Blaze around,Line 780 That common Bane of Greece and Troy, I found. For Ilium burnt, she dreads the Trojan Sword; More dreads the Vengeance of her injur'd Lord; Ev'n by those Gods, who refug'd her, abhorr'd. Trembling with Rage, the Strumpet I regard;Line 785 Resolv'd to give her Guilt the due reward. Shall she triumphant sail before the Wind, And leave in Flames, unhappy Troy behind?

Shall she, her Kingdom and her Friends review, In State attended with a Captive Crew;Line 790 While unreveng'd the good old Priam falls, And Grecian Fires consume the Trojan Walls? For this the Phrygian Fields, and Xanthian Flood Were swell'd with Bodies, and were drunk with Blood? 'Tis true a Souldier can small Honour gain,Line 795 And boast no Conquest from a Woman slain: Yet shall the Fact not pass without Applause, Of Vengeance taken in so just a Cause. The punish'd Crime shall set my Soul at ease: And murm'ring Manes of my Friends appease.Line 800 Thus while I rave, a gleam of pleasing Light Spread o're the Place, and shining Heav'nly bright, My Mother stood reveal'd before my Sight. Never so radiant did her Eyes appear; Not her own Star confess'd a Light so clear.Line 805 Great in her Charms, as when on Gods above She looks, and breaths her self into their Love. She held my hand, the destin'd Blow to break: Then from her rosie Lips began to speak. My Son, from whence this Madness, this neglectLine 810 Of my Commands, and those whom I protect? Why this unmanly Rage? Recall to mind Whom you forsake, what Pledges leave behind. Look if your helpless Father yet survive; Or if Ascanius, or Creusa live.Line 815 Around your House the greedy Grecians err; And these had perish'd in the nightly War, But for my Presence and protecting Care. Not Helen's Face, nor Paris was in fault; But by the Gods was this Destruction brought.Line 820 Now cast your Eyes around; while I dissolve The Mists and Films that mortal Eyes involve:

Purge from your sight the Dross, and make you see The Shape of each avenging Deity. Enlighten'd thus, my just Commands fulfill;Line 825 Nor fear Obedience to your Mother's Will. Where you disorder'd heap of Ruin lies, Stones rent from Stones, where Clouds of dust arise, Amid that smother, Neptune holds his place: Below the Wall's foundation drives his Mace:Line 830 And heaves the Building from the solid Base. Look where, in Arms, Imperial Juno stands, Full in the Scaean Gate, with loud Commands; Urging on Shore the tardy Grecian Bands. See Pallas, of her snaky Buckler proud,Line 835 Bestrides the Tow'r, refulgent through the Cloud: See Jove new Courage to the Foe supplies, And arms against the Town, the partial Deities. Haste hence, my Son; this fruitless Labour end: Haste where your trembling Spouse, and Sire attend:Line 840 Haste, and a Mother's Care your Passage shall befriend. She said: and swiftly vanish'd from my Sight, Obscure in Clouds, and gloomy Shades of Night. I look'd, I listen'd; dreadful Sounds I hear; And the dire Forms of hostile Gods appear.Line 845 Troy sunk in Flames I saw, nor could prevent; And Ilium from its old Foundations rent. Rent like a Mountain Ash, which dar'd the Winds; And stood the sturdy Stroaks of lab'ring Hinds: About the Roots the cruel Ax resounds,Line 850 The Stumps are pierc'd, with oft repeated Wounds. The War is felt on high, the nodding Crown Now threats a Fall, and throws the leafy Honours down. To their united Force it yields, though late; And mourns with mortal Groans th' approaching Fate:Line 855

The Roots no more their upper load sustain; But down she falls, and spreads a ruin thro' the Plain.

Descending thence, I scape through Foes, and Fire: Before the Goddess, Foes and Flames retire. Arriv'd at home, he for whose only sake,Line 860 Or most for his, such Toils I undertake, The good Anchises, whom, by timely Flight, I purpos'd to secure on Ida's height, Refus'd the Journey: Resolute to die, And add his Fun'rals to the fate of Troy:Line 865 Rather than Exile and old Age sustain. Go you, whose Blood runs warm in ev'ry Vein: Had Heav'n decreed that I shou'd Life enjoy, Heav'n had decreed to save unhappy Troy. 'Tis sure enough, if not too much for one;Line 870 Twice to have seen our Ilium overthrown. Make haste to save the poor remaining Crew; And give this useless Corps a long Adieu. These weak old Hands suffice to stop my Breath: At least the pitying Foes will aid my Death,Line 875 To take my Spoils: and leave my Body bare: As for my Sepulchre let Heav'n take Care. 'Tis long since I, for my Coelestial Wife, Loath'd by the Gods, have drag'd a ling'ring Life: Since ev'ry Hour and Moment I expire,Line 880 Blasted from Heav'n by Jove's avenging Fire. This oft repeated, he stood fix'd to die: My self, my Wife, my Son, my Family, Intreat, pray, beg, and raise a doleful Cry. What, will he still persist, on Death resolve,Line 885 And in his Ruin all his House involve! He still persists, his reasons to maintain; Our Pray'rs, our Tears, our loud Laments are vain.

Urg'd by Despair, again I go to try The fate of Arms, resolv'd in Fight to die.Line 890

[illustration]

To y^e Right Hon^ble, Rob^t: L^d. Constable Vis^nt. Dunbar in y^e Kingdom of Scotland

AE 2. l. 915.

What hope remains, but what my Death must give? Can I without so dear a Father live? You term it Prudence, what I Baseness call: Cou'd such a Word from such a Parent fall? If Fortune please, and so the Gods ordain,Line 895 That nothing shou'd of ruin'd Troy remain: And you conspire with Fortune, to be slain; The way to Death is wide, th' Approaches near: For soon relentless Pyrrhus will appear, Reeking with Priam's Blood: The wretch who slewLine 900 The Son (inhuman) in the Father's view, And then the Sire himself, to the dire Altar drew.

O Goddess Mother, give me back to fate; Your Gift was undesir'd, and came too late. Did you for this, unhappy me conveyLine 905 Through Foes and Fires to see my House a Prey? Shall I, my Father, Wife, and Son, behold Welt'ring in Blood, each others Arms infold? Haste, gird my Sword, tho' spent, and overcome: 'Tis the last Summons to receive our Doom.Line 910 I hear thee, Fate, and I obey thy Call: Not unreveng'd the Foe shall see my Fall. Restore me to the yet unfinish'd Fight: My Death is wanting to conclude the Night. Arm'd once again, my glitt'ring Sword I wield,Line 915 While th' other hand sustains my weighty Shield: And forth I rush to seek th' abandon'd Field. I went; but sad Creusa stop'd my way, And cross the Threshold in my Passage lay; Embrac'd my Knees; and when I wou'd have goneLine 920 Shew'd me my feeble Sire, and tender Son. If Death be your design, at least, said she, Take us along, to share your Destiny. If any farther hopes in Arms remain, This Place, these Pledges of your Love, maintain.Line 925

To whom do you expose your Father's Life, Your Son's, and mine, your now forgotten Wife! While thus she fills the House with clam'rous Cries, Our Hearing is diverted by our Eyes. For while I held my Son, in the short space,Line 930 Betwixt our Kisses and our last Embrace; Strange to relate, from young Iulus Head A lambent Flame arose, which gently spread Around his Brows, and on his Temples fed. Amaz'd, with running Water we prepareLine 935 To quench the sacred Fire, and shake his Hair; But old Anchises, vers'd in Omens, rear'd His hands to Heav'n, and this request preferr'd. If any Vows, Almighty Jove, can bend Thy Will, if Piety can Pray'rs commend,Line 940 Confirm the glad Presage which thou art pleas'd to send. Scarce had he said, when, on our left, we hear A peal of ratling Thunder rowl in Air: There shot a streaming Lamp along the Sky, Which on the winged Lightning seem'd to fly;Line 945 From o're the Roof the blaze began to move; And trailing vanish'd in th' Idean Grove. It swept a path in Heav'n, and shone a Guide; Then in a steaming stench of Sulphur dy'd.

The good old Man with suppliant hands implor'dLine 950 The Gods protection, and their Star ador'd. Now, now, said he, my Son, no more delay, I yield, I follow where Heav'n shews the way. Keep (O my Country Gods) our dwelling Place, And guard this Relick of the Trojan Race:Line 955 This tender Child; these Omens are your own; And you can yet restore the ruin'd Town. At least accomplish what your Signs foreshow: I stand resign'd, and am prepar'd to go.

[illustration]

To y^e Right Hon^ble: Mary Countess Dowager of Northampton

AE. 2. l. 985.

He said; the crackling Flames appear on high,Line 960 And driving Sparkles dance along the Sky. With Vulcan's rage the rising Winds conspire; And near our Palace rowl the flood of Fire. Haste, my dear Father, ('tis no time to wait) And load my Shoulders with a willing Fraight.Line 965 What e're befalls, your Life shall be my care, One Death, or one Deliv'rance we will share. My hand shall lead our little Son; and you My faithful Consort, shall our Steps purfue. Next, you my Servants, heed my strict Commands:Line 970 Without the Walls a ruin'd Temple stands, To Ceres hollow'd once; a Cypress nigh Shoots up her venerable Head on high; By long Religion kept: there bend your Feet; And in divided Parties let us meet.Line 975 Our Country Gods, the Relicks, and the Bands, Hold you, my Father, in your guiltless Hands: In me 'tis impious holy things to bear, Red as I am with Slaughter, new from War: 'Till in some living Stream I cleanse the GuiltLine 980 Of dire Debate, and Blood in Battel spilt. Thus, ord'ring all that Prudence cou'd provide, I cloath my Shoulders with a Lion's Hide; And yellow Spoils: Then, on my bending Back, The welcome load of my dear Father take.Line 985 While on my better Hand Ascanius hung, And with unequal Paces tript along. Creusa kept behind: by choice we stray Through ev'ry dark and ev'ry devious Way. I, who so bold and dauntless just before,Line 990 The Grecian Darts and shock of Lances bore, At ev'ry Shadow now am seiz'd with Fear: Not for my self, but for the Charge I bear.

Till near the ruin'd Gate arriv'd at last, Secure, and deeming all the Danger past;Line 995 A frightful noise of trampling Feet we hear; My Father looking through the Shades, with fear, Cry'd out, haste, haste my Son, the Foes are nigh; Their Swords, and shining Armour I descry. Some hostile God, for some unknown Offence,Line 1000 Had sure bereft my Mind of better Sence: For while through winding Ways I took my Flight; And sought the shelter of the gloomy Night; Alas! I lost Creusa: hard to tell If by her fatal Destiny she fell,Line 1005 Or weary sate, or wander'd with affright; But she was lost for ever to my sight. I knew not, or reflected, 'till I meet My Friends, at Ceres now deserted Seat: We met: not one was wanting, only sheLine 1010 Deceiv'd her Friends, her Son, and wretched me. What mad expessions did my Tongue refuse! Whom did I not of Gods or Men accuse! This was the fatal Blow, that pain'd me more Than all I felt from ruin'd Troy before.Line 1015 Stung with my Loss, and raving with Despair, Abandoning my now forgotten Care, Of Counsel, Comfort, and of Hope bereft, My Sire, my Son, my Country Gods, I left. In shining Armour once again I sheathLine 1020 My Limbs, not feeling Wounds, nor fearing Death. Then headlong to the burning Walls I run, And seek the Danger I was forc'd to shun. I tread my former Tracks: through Night explore Each Passage, ev'ry Street I cross'd before.Line 1025 All things were full of Horrour and Affright, And dreadful ev'n the silence of the Night.

Then, to my Father's House I make repair, With some small Glimps of hope to find her there: Instead of her the cruel Greeks I met;Line 1030 The house was fill'd with Foes, with Flames beset. Driv'n on the wings of Winds, whole sheets of Fire, Through Air transported, to the Roofs aspire. From thence to Priam's Palace I resort; And search the Citadel, and desart Court.Line 1035 Then, unobserv'd, I pass by Juno's Church; A guard of Grecians had possess'd the Porch: There Phaenix and Ulysses watch the Prey: And thither all the Wealth of Troy convey. The Spoils which they from ransack'd Houses brought;Line 1040 And golden Bowls from burning Altars caught. The Tables of the Gods, the Purple Vests; The People's Treasure, and the Pomp of Priests. A ranck of wretched Youths, with pinion'd Hands, And captive Matrons in long Order stands.Line 1045 Then, with ungovern'd Madness, I proclaim, Through all the silent Streets, Creusa's Name. Creusa still I call: At length she hears; And suddain, through the Shades of Night appears. Appears, no more Creusa, nor my Wife:Line 1050 But a pale Spectre, larger than the Life. Aghast, astonish'd, and struk dumb with Fear, I stood; like Bristles rose my stiffen'd Hair. Then thus the Ghost began to sooth my Grief: Nor Tears, nor Cries can give the dead Relief;Line 1055 Desist, my much lov'd Lord, t'indulge your Pain: You bear no more than what the Gods ordain. My Fates permit me not from hence to fly; Nor he, the great Comptroller of the Sky. Long wandring Ways for you the Pow'rs decree:Line 1060 On Land hard Labors, and a length of Sea.

Then, after many painful Years are past, On Latium's happy Shore you shall be cast: Where gentle Tiber from his Bed beholds The flow'ry Meadows, and the feeding Folds.Line 1065 There end your Toils: And there your Fates provide A quiet Kingdom, and a Royal Bride: There Fortune shall the Trojan Line restore; And you for lost Creusa weep no more. Fear not that I shall watch with servile Shame,Line 1070 Th' imperious Looks of some proud Grecian Dame: Or, stooping to the Victor's Lust, disgrace My Goddess Mother, or my Royal Race. And now, farewell: the Parent of the Gods Restrains my fleeting Soul in her Abodes:Line 1075 I trust our common Issue to your Care. She said: And gliding pass'd unseen in Air. I strove to speak, but Horror ty'd my Tongue; And thrice about her Neck my Arms I flung; And thrice deceiv'd, on vain Embraces hung.Line 1080 Light as an empty Dream at break of Day, Or as a blast of Wind, she rush'd away.

Thus, having pass'd the Night in fruitless Pain, I, to my longing Friends, return again. Amaz'd th' augmented Number to behold,Line 1085 Of Men, and Matrons mix'd, of young and old: A wretched Exil'd Crew together brought, With Arms appointed, and With Treasure fraught. Resolv'd, and willing under my Command, To run all hazards both of Sea and Land.Line 1090 The Morn began, from Ida, to display Her rosy Cheeks, and Phosphor led the day; Before the Gates the Grecians took their Post: And all pretence of late Relief was lost. I yield to Fate, unwillingly retire;Line 1095 And loaded, up the Hill convey my Sire.

The Third Book of the Aeneis.

The Argument.

Aeneas proceeds in his Relation: He gives an Account of the Fleet with which he sail'd, and the Success of his first Voyage to Thrace; from thence he directs his Course to Delos, and asks the Oracle what place the Gods had appointed for his Habitation? By a mistake of the Oracle's Answer, he settles in Crete; his household Gods give him the true sense of the Oracle, in a Dream. He follows their advice, and makes the best of his way for Italy: He is cast on several Shores, and meets with very surprising Adventures, 'till at length he lands on Sicily: where his Father Anchises dies. This is the place which he was sailing from when the Tempest rose and threw him upon the Carthaginian Coast.

[illustration]

To the Right Hon^ble. William Stanley Earle of Derby &^ct L^d of Man & y^e Isles

AE. e. l. 2.

WHen Heav'n had overturn'd the Trojan State, And Priam's Throne, by too severe a Fate: When ruin'd Troy became the Grecians Prey, And Ilium's lofty Tow'rs in Ashes lay: Warn'd by Coelestial Omens, we retreat,Line 5 To seek in foreign Lands a happier Seat. Near old Antandros, and at Ida's foot, The Timber of the sacred Groves we cut: And build our Fleet; uncertain yet to find What place the Gods for our Repose assign'd.Line 10 Friends daily flock; and scarce the kindly Spring Began to cloath the Ground, and Birds to sing; When old Anchises summon'd all to Sea: The Crew, my Father and the Fates obey. With Sighs and Tears I leave my native Shore,Line 15 And empty Fields, where Ilium stood before. My Sire, my Son, our less, and greater Gods, All sail at once; and tempt the briny Floods.

Against our Coast appears a spacious Land, Which once the fierce Lycurgus did command:Line 20

Thracia the Name; the People bold in War; Vast are their Fields, and Tillage is their Care. A hospitable Realm while Fate was kind; With Troy in friendship and Religion join'd. I land; with luckless Omens, then adoreLine 25 Their Gods, and draw a Line along the Shore: I lay the deep Foundations of a Wall; And Enos, nam'd from me, the City call. To Dionaean Venus Vows are paid, And all the Pow'rs that rising Labours aid;Line 30 A Bull on Jove's Imperial Altar laid. Not far, a rising Hillock stood in view; Sharp Myrtles, on the sides, and Cornels grew. There, while I went to crop the Silvan Scenes, And shade our Altar with their leafy Greens;Line 35 I pull'd a Plant; with horror I relate A Prodigy so strange, and full of Fate. The rooted Fibers rose; and from the Wound, Black bloody Drops distill'd upon the Ground. Mute, and amaz'd, my Hair with Horror stood;Line 40 Fear shrunk my Sinews, and congeal'd my Blood. Man'd once again, another Plant I try; That other gush'd with the same sanguine Dye. Then, fearing Guilt, for some Offence unknown, With Pray'rs and Vows the Driads I attone:Line 45 With all the Sisters of the Woods, and most The God of Arms, who rules the Thracian Coast: That they, or he, these Omens wou'd avert; Release our Fears, and better signs impart. Clear'd, as I thought, and fully fix'd at lengthLine 50 To learn the Cause, I tug'd with all my Strength; I bent my knees against the Ground; once more The violated Myrtle ran with purple Gore.

Scarce dare I tell the Sequel: From the Womb Of wounded Earth, and Caverns of the Tomb,Line 55 A Groan, as of a troubled Ghost, renew'd My Fright, and then these dreadful Words ensu'd. Why dost thou thus my bury'd Body rend? O spare the Corps of thy unhappy Friend! Spare to pollute thy pious Hands with Blood:Line 60 The Tears distil not from the wounded Wood; But ev'ry drop this living Tree contains, Is kindred Blood, and ran in Trojan Veins: O fly from this unhospitable Shore, Warn'd by my Fate; for I am Polydore!Line 65 Here loads of Lances, in my Blood embru'd, Again shoot upward, by my Blood renew'd.

My faultring Tongue, and shiv'ring Limbs declare My Horror, and in Bristles rose my Hair. When Troy with Grecian Arms was closely pent,Line 70 Old Priam, fearful of the Wars Event, This hapless Polydore to Thracia sent. Loaded with Gold, he sent his Darling, far From Noise and Tumults, and destructive War: Commited to the faithless Tyrant's Care.Line 75 Who, when he saw the Pow'r of Troy decline, Forsook the weaker, with the strong to join. Broke ev'ry Bond of Nature, and of Truth; And murder'd, for his Wealth, the Royal Youth. O sacred Hunger of pernicious Gold,Line 80 What bands of Faith can impious Lucre hold! Now, when my Soul had shaken off her Fears, I call my Father, and the Trojan Peers: Relate the Prodigies of Heav'n; require. What he commands, and their Advice desire.Line 85 All vote to leave that execrable Shore, Polluted with the Blood of Polydore.

But e're we sail, his Fun'ral Rites prepare; Then, to his Ghost, a Tomb and Altars rear, In mournful Pomp the Matrons walk the round:Line 90 With baleful Cypress, and blue Fillets crown'd; With Eyes dejected, and with Hair unbound. Then Bowls of tepid Milk and Blood we pour, And thrice invoke the Soul of Polydore. Now when the raging Storms no longer reign;Line 95 But Southern Gales invite us to the Main; We launch our Vessels, with a prosp'rous Wind; And leave the Cities and the Shores behind.

An Island in th' Aegean Main appears: Neptune and wat'ry Doris claim it theirs.Line 100 It floated once, till Phoebus fix'd the sides To rooted Earth, and now it braves the Tides. Here, born by friendly Winds, we come ashore With needful ease our weary Limbs restore; And the Sun's Temple, and his Town adore.Line 105

Anius the Priest, and King, with Lawrel crown'd, His hoary Locks with purple Fillets bound, Who saw my Sire the Delian Shore ascend, Came forth with eager haste to meet his Friend. Invites him to his Palace; and in signLine 110 Of ancient Love, their plighted Hands they join. Then to the Temple of the God I went; And thus, before the Shrine, my Vows present. Give, O Thymbraeus, give a resting place, To the sad Relicks of the Trojan Race:Line 115 A Seat secure, a Region of their own, A lasting Empire, and a happier Town. Where shall we fix, where shall our Labours end, Whom shall we follow, and what Fate attend? Let not my Pray'rs a doubtful Answer find,Line 120 But in clear Auguries unveil thy Mind.

[illustration]

To the Right Hon^ble: Nathanael Lord Bishop of Durham

AE. 3 l: 220

Scarce had I said, He shook the holy Ground: The Lawrels, and the lofty Hills around: And from the Tripos rush'd a bellowing sound. Prostrate we fell; confess'd the present God,Line 125 Who gave this Answer from his dark Abode. Undaunted Youths, go seek that Mother Earth From which your Ancestors derive their Birth. The Soil that sent you forth, her Ancient Race, In her old Bosom, shall again embrace.Line 130 Through the wide World th' Eneian House shall reign, And Childrens Children shall the Crown sustain. Thus Phoebus did our future Fates disclose; A mighty Tumult, mix'd with Joy, arose.

All are concern'd to know what place the GodLine 135 Assign'd and where determind our abode. My Father, long revolving in His Mind, The Race and Lineage of the Trojan Kind, Thus answer'd their demands: Ye Princes, hear Your pleasing Fortune; and dispel your fear.Line 140 The fruitful Isle of Crete well known to Fame, Sacred of old to Jove's Immortal Name. In the mid Ocean lies, with large Command; And on its Plains a hundred Cities stand. Another Ida rises there; and weLine 145 From thence derive our Trojan Ancestry. From thence, as 'tis divulg'd by certain Fame, To the Rhaetean Shores old Teucrus came. There fix'd, and there the Seat of Empire chose, E're Ilium and the Trojan Tow'rs arose.Line 150 In humble Vales they built their soft abodes: Till Cybele, the Mother of the Gods, With tinckling Cymbals charm'd th' Idean Woods▪ She, secret Rites and Ceremonies taught, And to the Yoke, the salvage Lions brought.Line 551

Let us the Land, which Heav'n appoints, explore; Appease the Winds, and seek the Gnossian Shore. If Jove assists tht passage of our Fleet, The third propitious dawn discovers Creet. Thus having said, the Sacrifices laidLine 160 On smoking Altars, to the Gods He paid. A Bull, to Neptune an Oblation due, Another Bull to bright Apollo slew: A milk white Ewe the Western Winds to please; And one cole black to calm the stormy Seas.Line 165 E're this, a flying Rumour had been spred, That fierce Idomeneus from Crete was fled; Expell'd and exil'd; that the Coast was free From Foreign or Domestick Enemy: We leave the Delian Ports, and put to Sea:Line 170 By Naxos, fam'd for Vintage, make our way: Then green Donysa pass; and Sail in sight Of Paros Isle, with Marble Quarries white. We pass the scatter'd Isles of Cyclades; That, scarce distinguish'd, seem to stud the Seas.Line 175 The shouts of Saylors double near the shores; They stretch their Canvass, and they ply their Oars. All hands aloft, for Creet for Creet they cry, And swiftly through the foamy Billows fly. Full on the promis'd Land at length we bore,Line 180 With Joy desending on the Cretan Shore. With eager haste a rising Town I frame, Which from the Trojan Pergamus I name: The Name it self was grateful; I exhort To found their Houses, and erect a Fort.Line 185 Our Ships are haul'd upon the yellow strand, The Youth begin to till the labour'd Land. And I my self new Marriages promote, Give Laws: and Dwellings I divide by Lot. Line 190

When rising Vapours choak the wholesom Air,Line 190 And blasts of noisom Winds corrupt the Year: The Trees, devouring Caterpillers burn: Parch'd was the Grass, and blited was the Corn. Nor scape the Beasts: for Syrius from on high, With pestilential Heat infects the Sky:Line 195 My Men, some fall, the rest in Feavers fry. Again my Father bids me seek the Shore Of sacred Delos; and the God implore: To learn what end of Woes we might expect, And to what Clime, our weary Course direct.Line 200

'Twas Night, when ev'ry Creature, void of Cares, The common gift of balmy Slumber shares: The Statues of my Gods, (for such they seem'd) Those Gods whom I from flaming Troy redeem'd, Before me stood; Majestically bright,Line 205 Full in the Beams of Phoebe's entring light. Then thus they spoke; and eas'd my troubled Mind: What from the Delian God thou go'st to find, He tells thee here; and sends us to relate: Those Pow'rs are we, Companions of thy Fate,Line 210 Who from the burning Town by thee were brought; Thy Fortune follow'd, and thy safety wrought. Through Seas and Lands, as we thy Steps attend, So shall our Care thy Glorious Race befriend. An ample Realm for thee thy Fates ordain;Line 215 A Town, that o're the conquer'd World shall reign. Thou, mighty Walls for mighty Nations build; Nor let thy weary Mind to Labours yield: But change thy Seat; for not the Delian God, Nor we, have giv'n thee Crete for our Abode.Line 220 A Land there is, Hesperia call'd of old, The Soil is fruitful, and the Natives bold.

Th' Oenotrians held it once; by later Fame, Now call'd Italia from the Leader's Name.

Jäsius there, and Dardanus were born:Line 225 From thence we came, and thither must return. Rise, and thy Sire with these glad Tidings greet; Search Italy, for Jove denies thee Creet. Astonish'd at their Voices, and their sight, (Nor were they Dreams, but Visions of the Night;Line 230 I saw, I knew their Faces, and descry'd In perfect View, their Hair with Fillets ty'd:) I started from my Couch, a clammy Sweat On all my Limbs, and shiv'ring Body sate. To Heav'n I lift my Hands with pious haste,Line 235 And sacred Incense in the Flames I cast. Thus to the Gods their perfect Honours done, More chearful to my good old Sire I run: And tell the pleasing News; in little space He found his Error, of the double Race.Line 240 Not, as before he deem'd, deriv'd from Creet; No more deluded by the doubtful Seat. Then said, O Son, turmoil'd in Trojan Fate; Such things as these Cassandra did relate. This Day revives within my Mind, what sheLine 245 Foretold of Troy renew'd in Italy; And Latian Lands: but who cou'd then have thought, That Phrygian Gods to Latium should be brought; Or who believ'd what mad Cassandra taught? Now let us go, where Phoebus leads the way:Line 250 He said, and we with glad Consent obey. Forsake the Seat; and leaving few behind, We spread our sails before the willing Wind. Now from the sight of Land, our Gallies move, With only Seas around, and Skies above.Line 255

When o're our Heads, descends a burst of Rain; And Night, with sable Clouds involves the Main: The ruffling Winds the foamy Billows raise: The scatter'd Fleet is forc'd to sev'ral Ways: The face of Heav'n is ravish'd from our Eyes,Line 260 And in redoubl'd Peals the roaring Thunder flys. Cast from our Course, we wander in the Dark; No Stars to guide, no point of Land to mark. Ev'n Palinurus no distinction found Betwixt the Night and Day; such Darkness reign'd around.Line 265 Three starless Nights the doubtful Navy strays Without Distinction, and three Sunless Days. The fourth renews the Light, and from our Shrowds We view a rising Land like distant Clouds: The Mountain tops confirm the pleasing Sight;Line 270 And curling Smoke ascending from their Height. The Canvas falls; their Oars the Sailors ply; From the rude strokes the whirling Waters fly. At length I land upon the Strophades; Safe from the danger of the stormy Seas:Line 275 Those Isles are compass'd by th' Ionian Main; The dire Abode where the foul Harpies reign: Forc'd by the winged Warriors to repair To their old Homes, and leave their costly Fare. Monsters more fierce, offended Heav'n ne're sentLine 280 From Hell's Abyss, for Human Punishment. With Virgin-faces, but with Wombs obscene, Foul Paunches, and with Ordure still unclean: With Claws for Hands, and Looks for ever lean.

We landed at the Port; and soon beheldLine 285 Fat Herds of Oxen graze the flowry Field: And wanton Goats without a Keeper stray'd: With Weapons we the welcome Prey invade.

Then call the Gods, for Partners of our Feast: And Jove himself the chief invited Guest.Line 290 We spread the Tables, on the greensword Ground: We feed with Hunger, and the Bowls go round. When from the Mountain tops, with hideous Cry, And clatt'ring Wings, the hungry Harpies fly: They snatch the Meat; defiling all they find:Line 295 And parting leave a loathsom Stench behind. Close by a hollow Rock, again we sit; New dress the Dinner, and the Beds refit: Secure from Sight, beneath a pleasing Shade; Where tufted Trees a native Arbour made.Line 300 Again the Holy Fires on Altars burn: And once again the rav'nous Birds return: Or from the dark Recesses where they ly▪ Or from another Quarter of the Sky. With filthy Claws their odious Meal repeat,Line 305 And mix their loathsom Ordures with their Meat. I bid my Friends for Vengeance then prepare; And with the Hellish Nation wage the War. They, as commanded, for the Fight provide, And in the Grass their glitt'ring Weapons hide:Line 310 Then, when along the crooked Shoar we hear Their clatt'ring Wings, and saw the Foes appear; Misenus sounds a charge: We take th' Alarm; And our strong hands with Swords and Bucklers arm. In this new kind of Combat, all employLine 315 Their utmost Force, the Monsters to destroy. In vain; the fated Skin is proof to Wounds: And from their Plumes the shining Sword rebounds. At length rebuff'd, they leave their mangled Prey, And their stretch'd Pinions to the Skies display.Line 320 Yet one remain'd, the Messenger of Fate; High on a craggy Cliff Celaeno sate, And thus her dismal Errand did relate.

[illustration]

To y^e Right Reverend D^r: John Hartstonge B^p: of Ossory in Kilkenny Son of S^r. Standish Hartstonge Bar^t

AE. 3. l. 315.

What, not contented with our Oxen slain, Dare you with Heav'n an impious War maintain,Line 325 And drive the Harpies from their Native Reign? Heed therefore what I say; and keep in mind What Jove decrees, what Phoebus has design'd: And I, the Fury's Queen, from both relate: You seek th' Italian Shores, foredoom'd by Fate:Line 330 Th' Italian Shores are granted you to find: And a safe Passage to the Port assign'd. But know, that e're your promis'd Walls you build, My Curses shall severely be fulfill'd. Fierce Famine is your Lot, for this Misdeed,Line 335 Reduc'd to grind the Plates on which you feed. She said; and to the neighb'ring Forest flew: Our Courage fails us, and our Fears renew. Hopeless to win by War, to Pray'rs we fall: And on th' offended Harpies humbly call.Line 340 And whether Gods, or Birds obscene they were, Our Vows for Pardon, and for Peace prefer. But old Anchises, off'ring Sacrifice, And lifting up to Heav'n his Hands, and Eyes; Ador'd the greater Gods: Avert, said he,Line 345 These Omens, render vain this Prophecy: And from th' impending Curse, a Pious People free. Thus having said, he bids us put to Sea; We loose from Shore our Haulsers, and obey: And soon with swelling Sails, pursue the wat'ry Way.Line 350 Amidst our course Zacynthian Woods appear; And next by rocky Neritos we steer: We fly from Ithaca's detested Shore, And curse the Land which dire Ulysses bore. At length Leucates cloudy top appears;Line 355 And Phoebus Temple, which the Sailor fears.

Resolv'd to breath a while from Labour past, Our crooked Anchors from the Prow we cast; And joyful to the little City haste. Here safe beyond our Hopes, our Vows we payLine 360 To Jove, the Guide and Patron of our way. The Customs of our Country we pursue; And Trojan Games on Actian Shores renew. Our Youth, their naked Limbs besmear with Oyl; And exercise the Wrastlers noble Toil.Line 365 Pleas'd to have sail'd so long before the Wind; And left so many Grecian Towns behind. The Sun had now fulfill'd his Annual Course, And Boreas on the Seas display'd his Force: I fix'd upon the Temples lofty Door,Line 370 The brazen Shield which vanquish'd Abas bore: The Verse beneath, my Name and Action speaks, These Arms, Aeneas took from Conqu'ring Greeks. Then I command to weigh; the Seamen ply Their sweeping Oars, the smokeing Billows fly.Line 375 The sight of high Phaeacia soon we lost: And skim'd along Epirus rocky Coast. Then to Chaonia's Port our Course we bend, And landed, to Buthrotus heights ascend. Here wond'rous things were loudly blaz'd by Fame;Line 380 How Helenus reviv'd the Trojan Name; And raign'd in Greece: That Priam's captive Son Succeeded Pyrrhus in his Bed and Throne. And fair Andromache, restor'd by Fate, Once more was happy in a Trojan Mate.Line 385 I leave my Gallies riding in the Port; And long to see the new Dardanian Court. By chance, the mournful Queen, before the Gate, Then solemniz'd her former Husbands Fate.

[illustration]

To The Hon^ble. D^r: Ioⁿ: Mountague Master of Trinity College in Cambridge

AE. 3. l: 415.

Green Altars rais'd of Turf, with Gifts she Crown'd;Line 390 And sacred Priests in order stand around; And thrice the Name of hapless Hector sound. The Grove it self resembles Ida's Wood; And Simois seem'd the well dissembl'd Flood. But when, at nearer distance, she beheldLine 395 My shining Armour, and my Trojan Shield; Astonish'd at the sight, the vital Heat Forsakes her Limbs, her Veins no longer beat: She faints, she falls, and scarce recov'ring strength, Thus, with a falt'ring Tongue, she speaks at length.Line 400

Are you alive, O Goddess born! she said, Or if a Ghost, then where is Hector's Shade? At this, she cast a loud and frightful Cry: With broken words, I made this brief Reply. All of me that remains, appears in sight,Line 405 I live; if living be to loath the Light. No Phantome; but I drag a wretched life; My Fate resembling that of Hector's Wife. What have you suffer'd since you lost your Lord, By what strange blessing are you now restor'd!Line 410 Still are you Hector's, or is Hector fled, And his Remembrance lost in Pyrrhus Bed? With Eyes dejected, in a lowly tone, After a modest pause, she thus begun.

Oh only happy Maid of Priam's Race,Line 415 Whom Death deliver'd from the Foes embrace! Commanded on Achilles Tomb to die, Not forc'd, like us, to hard Captivity: Or in a haughty Master's Arms to lie. In Grecian Ships unhappy we were born:Line 420 Endur'd the Victor's Lust, sustain'd the Scorn: Thus I submitted to the lawless pride Of Pyrrhus, more a Handmaid than a Bride.

Cloy'd with Possession, He forsook my Bed, And Helen's lovely Daughter sought to wed.Line 425 Then me, to Trojan Helenus resign'd: And his two Slaves in equal Marriage join'd. Till young Orestes, pierc'd with deep despair, And longing to redeem the promis'd Fair, Before Apollo's Altar slew the Ravisher.Line 430 By Pyrrhus death the Kingdom we regain'd: At least one half with Helenus remain'd; Our part, from Chaon, He Chaonia calls: And names, from Pergamus, his rising Walls. But you, what Fates have landed on our Coast,Line 435 What Gods have sent you, or what Storms have tost? Does young Ascanius life and health enjoy, Sav'd from the Ruins of unhappy Troy! O tell me how his Mothers loss he bears, What hopes are promis'd from his blooming years,Line 440 How much of Hector in his Face appears? She spoke: and mix'd her Speech with mournful Cries: And fruitless Tears came trickling from her Eyes. At length her Lord descends upon the Plain; In pomp, attended with a num'rous Train:Line 445 Receives his Friends, and to the City leads; And Tears of Joy amidst his Welcome sheds. Proceeding on, another Troy I see; Or, in less compass, Troy's Epitome. A Riv'let by the name of Xanthus ran:Line 450 And I embrace the Scaean Gate again. My Friends in Portico's were entertain'd; And Feasts and Pleasures through the City reign'd. The Tables fill'd the spacious Hall around: And Golden Bowls with sparkling Wine were crown'd.Line 455 Two days we pass'd in mirth, till friendly Gales, Blown from the South, supply'd our swelling Sails.

Then to the Royal Seer I thus began: O thou who know'st beyond the reach of Man, The Laws of Heav'n, and what the Stars decree,Line 460 Whom Phoebus taught unerring Prophecy, From his own Tripod, and his holy Tree: Skill'd in the wing'd Inhabitants of Air, What Auspices their notes, and flights declare: O say; for all Religious Rites portendLine 465 A happy Voyage, and a prosp'rous End: And ev'ry Pow'r and Omen of the Sky, Direct my Course for destin'd Italy: But only dire Celaeno, from the Gods, A dismal Famine fatally fore-bodes:Line 470 O say what Dangers I am first to shun: What Toils to vanquish, and what Course to run.

The Prophet first with Sacrifice adores The greater Gods; their Pardon then implores: Unbinds the Fillet from his holy Head;Line 475 To Phoebus next, my trembling Steps he led: Full of religious Doubts, and awful dread. Then with his God possess'd, before the Shrine, These words proceeded from his Mouth Divine. O Goddess-born, (for Heav'n's appointed Will,Line 480 With greater Auspices of good than ill, Fore-shows thy Voyage, and thy Course directs; Thy Fates conspire, and Jove himself protects:) Of many things, some few I shall explain, Teach thee to shun the dangers of the Main,Line 485 And how at length the promis'd Shore to gain. The rest the Fates from Helenus conceal; And Juno's angry Pow'r forbids to tell. First then, that happy Shore, that seems so nigh, Will far from your deluded Wishes fly:Line 490 Long tracts of Seas divide your hopes from Italy.

For you must cruise along Sicilian Shoars; And stem the Currents with your struggling Oars: Then round th' Italian Coast your Navy steer; And after this to Circe's Island veer.Line 495 And last, before your new Foundations rise, Must pass the Stygian Lake, and view the neather Skies. Now mark the Signs of future Ease and Rest; And bear them safely treasur'd in thy Breast. When in the shady Shelter of a Wood,Line 500 And near the Margin of a gentle Flood, Thou shalt behold a Sow upon the Ground, With thirty sucking young encompass'd round; The Dam and Off-spring white as falling Snow: These on thy City shall their Name bestow:Line 505 And there shall end thy Labours and thy Woe. Nor let the threatned Famine fright thy Mind, For Phoebus will assist; and Fate the way will find. Let not thy Course to that ill Coast be bent, Which fronts from far th' Epirian Continent;Line 510 Those parts are all by Grecian Foes possess'd: The salvage Locrians here the Shores infest: There fierce Idomeneus his City builds, And guards with Arms the Salentinian Fields. And on the Mountains brow Petilia stands,Line 515 Which Philoctetes with his Troops commands. Ev'n when thy Fleet is landed on the Shore, And Priests with holy Vows the Gods adore; Then with a Purple Veil involve your Eyes, Lest hostile Faces blast the Sacrifice.Line 520 These Rites and Customs to the Rest commend; That to your Pious Race they may descend.

When parted hence, the Wind that ready waits For Sicily, shall bear you to the Streights: Line 525

Where proud Pelorus opes a wider way,Line 525 Tack to the Larboord, and stand off to Sea: Veer Star-board Sea and Land. Th' Italian Shore, And fair Sicilia's Coast were one, before An Earthquake caus'd the Flaw, the roaring Tides The Passage broke, that Land from Land divides:Line 530 And where the Lands retir'd, the rushing Ocean rides. Distinguish'd by the Streights, on either hand, Now rising Cities in long order stand; And fruitful Fields: So much can Time invade The mouldring Work, that beauteous Nature made.Line 535 Far on the right, her Dogs foul Scylla hides: Charibdis roaring on the left presides; And in her greedy Whirl-pool sucks the Tides: Then Spouts them from below; with Fury driv'n, The Waves mount up, and wash the face of Heav'n.Line 540 But Scylla from her Den, with open Jaws, The sinking Vessel in her Eddy draws; Then dashes on the Rocks: A Human Face, And Virgin Bosom, hides her Tails disgrace. Her Parts obscene below the Waves descend,Line 545 With Dogs inclos'd; and in a Dolphin end. 'Tis safer, then, to bear aloof to Sea, And coast Pachynus, though with more delay; Than once to view mishapen Scylla near, And the loud yell of watry Wolves to hear.Line 550

Besides, if Faith to Helenus be due, And if Prophetick Phoebus tell me true; Do not this Precept of your Friend forget; Which therefore more than once I must repeat. Above the rest, great Juno's Name adore:Line 555 Pay Vows to Juno; Juno's Aid implore. Let Gifts be to the mighty Queen design'd; And mollify with Pray'rs her haughty Mind.

Thus, at the length, your Passage shall be free, And you shall safe descend on Italy.Line 560 Arriv'd at Cumae, when you view the Flood Of black Avernus, and the sounding Wood, The mad prophetick Sybil you shall find, Dark in a Cave, and on a Rock reclin'd. She sings the Fates, and in her frantick Fitts,Line 565 The Notes and Names inscrib'd, to Leafs commits. What she commits to Leafs, in order laid, Before the Caverns Entrance are display'd: Unmov'd they lie, but if a Blast of Wind Without, or Vapours issue from behind,Line 570 The Leafs are born aloft in liquid Air, And she resumes no more her Museful Care: Nor gathers from the Rocks her scatter'd Verse; Nor sets in order what the Winds disperse. Thus, many not succeeding, most upbraidLine 575 The Madness of the visionary Maid; And with loud Curses leave the mystick Shade.

Think it not loss of time a while to stay; Though thy Companions chide thy long delay: Tho' summon'd to the Seas, tho' pleasing GalesLine 580 Invite thy Course, and stretch thy swelling Sails. But beg the sacred Priestess to relate With willing Words, and not to write thy Fate. The fierce Italian People she will show; And all thy Wars, and all thy Future Woe;Line 585 And what thou may'st avoid, and what must undergo. She shall direct thy Course, instruct thy Mind; And teach thee how the happy Shores to find. This is what Heav'n allows me to relate: Now part in Peace; pursue thy better Fate,Line 590 And raise, by strength of Arms, the Trojan State▪

This, when the Priest with friendly Voice declar'd, He gave me Licence, and rich Gifts prepar'd: Bounteous of Treasure, he supply'd my want With heavy Gold, and polish'd Elephant.Line 595 Then Dodonaean Caldrons put on Bord, And ev'ry Ship with Sums of Silver stor'd. A trusty Coat of Mail to me he sent, Thrice chain'd with Gold, for Use and Ornament: The Helm of Pyrrhus added to the rest,Line 600 That flourish'd with a Plume and waving Crest. Nor was my Sire forgotten, nor my Friends: And large Recruits he to my Navy sends; Men, Horses, Captains, Arms, and warlick Stores: Supplies new Pilots, and new sweeping Oars.Line 605 Mean time, my Sire commands to hoist our Sails; Lest we shou'd lose the first auspicious Gales. The Prophet bless'd the parting Crew: and last, With Words like these, his ancient Friend embrac'd. Old happy Man, the Care of Gods above,Line 610 Whom Heav'nly Venus honour'd with her Love, And twice preserv'd thy Life, when Troy was lost; Behold from far the wish'd Ausonian Coast: There land; but take a larger Compass round; For that before is all forbidden Ground.Line 615 The Shore that Phoebus has design'd for you, At farther distance lies, conceal'd from view. Go happy hence, and seek your new Abodes; Bless'd in a Son, and favour'd by the Gods: For I with useless words prolong your stay;Line 620 When Southern Gales have summon'd you away.

Nor less the Queen our parting thence deplor'd; Nor was less bounteous than her Trojan Lord. A noble Present to my Son she brought, A Robe with Flow'rs on Golden Tissue wrought;

A Phrygian Vest; and loads, with Gifts beside Of precious Texture, and of Asian Pride. Accept, she said, these Monuments of Love; Which in my Youth with happier Hands I wove: Regard these Trifles for the Giver's sake;Line 630 Tis the last Present Hector's Wife can make. Thou call'st my lost Astyanax to mind: In thee his Features, and his Form I find. His Eyes so sparkled with a lively Flame; Such were his Motions, such was all his Frame;Line 635 And ah! had Heav'n so pleas'd, his Years had been the same.

With Tears I took my last adieu, and said, Your Fortune, happy pair, already made, Leaves you no farther Wish: My diff'rent state, Avoiding one, incurs another Fate.Line 640 To you a quiet Seat the Gods allow, You have no Shores to search, no Seas to plow, Nor Fields of flying Italy to chase: (Deluding Visions, and a vain Embrace!) You see another Simois, and enjoyLine 645 The labour of your Hands another Troy; With better Auspice than her ancient Tow'rs: And less obnoxious to the Grecian Pow'rs. If e're the Gods, whom I with Vows adore, Conduct my Steps to Tiber's happy Shore:Line 650 If ever I ascend the Latian Throne, And build a City I may call my own, As both of us our Birth from Troy derive, So let our Kindred Lines in Concord live: And both in Acts of equal Friendship strive.Line 655 Our Fortunes, good or bad, shall be the same▪ The double Troy shall differ but in Name: That what we now begin, may never end; But long, to late Posterity descend.

[illustration]

To Edward Browne D^r. in Physick.

AE. 3. l. 625.

Near the Ceraunean Rocks our Course we bore:Line 660 (The shortest passage to th' Italian shore:) Now had the Sun withdrawn his radiant Light, And Hills were hid in dusky Shades of Night: We land; and on the bosom of the Ground A safe Retreat, and a bare Lodging found;Line 665 Close by the Shore we lay; the Sailors keep Their watches, and the rest securely sleep. The Night proceeding on with silent pace, Stood in her noon; and view'd with equal Face, Her steepy rise, and her declining Race.Line 670 Then wakeful Palinurus rose, to spie The face of Heav'n, and the Nocturnal Skie; And listen'd ev'ry breath of Air to try: Observes the Stars, and notes their sliding Course, The Pleiads, Hyads, and their wat'ry force;Line 675 And both the Bears is careful to behold; And bright Orion arm'd with burnish'd Gold. Then when he saw no threat'ning Tempest Nigh, But a sure promise of a settled Skie; He gave the Sign to weigh; we break our sleep;Line 680 Forsake the pleasing Shore, and plow the deep. And now the rising Morn, with rosie light Adorns the Skies, and puts the Stars to flight: When we from far, like bluish Mists, descry The Hills, and then the Plains of Italy.Line 685 Achates first pronounc'd the Joyful sound; Then Italy the chearful Crew rebound. My Sire Anchises crown'd a Cup with Wine: And off'ring, thus implor'd the Pow'rs Divine. Ye Gods, presiding over Lands and Seas,Line 690 And you who raging Winds and Waves appease, Breath on our swelling Sails a prosp'rous Wind: And smooth our Passage to the Port assign'd.

The gentle Gales their flagging force renew; And now the happy Harbour is in view.Line 695 Minerva's Temple then salutes our sight; Plac'd, as a Land-mark, on the Mountains height: We furl our Sails, and turn the Prows to shore; The curling Waters round the Galleys roar: The Land lies open to the raging East,Line 700 Then, bending like a Bow, with Rocks compress'd, Shuts out the Storms; the Winds and Waves complain, And vent their malice on the Cliffs in vain. The Port lies hid within; on either side Two Tow'ring Rocks the narrow mouth divide.Line 705 The Temple, which aloft we view'd before, To distance flies, and seems to shun the Shore. Scarce landed, the first Omens I beheld Were four white Steeds that crop'd the flow'ry Field. War, War is threaten'd from this Forreign Ground,Line 710 (My Father cry'd) where warlike Steeds are found. Yet, since reclaim'd to Chariots they submit, And bend to stubborn Yokes, and champ the Bitt, Peace may succeed to Warr. Our way we bend To Pallas, and the sacred Hill ascend.Line 715 There, prostrate to the fierce Virago pray; Whose Temple was the Land-Mark of our way. Each with a Phrygian Mantle veil'd his Head; And all Commands of Helenus obey'd; And pious Rites to Grecian Juno paid.Line 720 These dues perform'd, we stretch our Sails, and stand To Sea, forsaking that suspected Land. From hence Tarentum's Bay appears in view; For Hercules renown'd, if Fame be true. Just opposite, Lacinian Juno stands; Caulonian Tow'rs and Scylacaean Strands.

For Shipwrecks fear'd: Mount Etna thence we spy, Known by the smoaky Flames which Cloud the Skie. Far off we hear the Waves, with surly sound Invade the Rocks, the Rocks their groans rebound.Line 730 The Billows break upon the sounding Strand; And roul the rising Tide, impure with Sand. Then thus Anchises, in Experience old, 'Tis that Charibdis which the Seer foretold: And those the promis'd Rocks; bear off to Sea:Line 735 With haste the frighted Mariners obey. First Palinurus to the Larboor'd veer'd; Then all the Fleet by his Example steer'd. To Heav'n aloft on ridgy Waves we ride; Then down to Hell descend, when they divide.Line 740 And thrice our Gallies knock'd the stony ground, And thrice the hollow Rocks return'd the sound, And thrice we saw the Stars, that stood with dews around. The flagging Winds forsook us, with the Sun; And weary'd, on Cyclopean Shores we run.Line 745 The Port capacious, and secure from Wind, Is to the foot of thundring Etna joyn'd. By turns a pitchy Cloud she rowls on high; By turns hot Embers from her entrails fly; And flakes of mounting Flames, that lick the Skie.Line 750 Oft from her Bowels massy Rocks are thrown, And shiver'd by the force come piece-meal down. Oft liquid Lakes of burning Sulphur flow, Fed from the fiery Springs that boil below. Enceladus they say, transfix'd by Jove,Line 755 With blasted Limbs came tumbling from above: And, where he fell, th' Avenging Father drew This flaming Hill, and on his Body threw: As often as he turns his weary sides, He shakes the solid Isle, and smoke the Heavens hides.Line 760

In shady Woods we pass the tedious Night, Where bellowing Sounds and Groans our Souls affright Of which no Cause is offer'd to the sight. For not one Star was kindled in the Skie; Nor cou'd the Moon her borrow'd Light supply:Line 765 For misty Clouds invovl'd the Firmament; The Stars were muffled, and the Moon was pent. Scarce had the rising Sun the day reveal'd; Scarce had his heat the pearly dews dispell'd; When from the Woods there bolts, before our sight,Line 770 Somewhat, betwixt a Mortal and a Spright. So thin, so ghastly meagre, and so wan, So bare of flesh, he scarce resembled Man. This thing, all tatter'd, seem'd from far t'implore Our pious aid, and pointed to the Shore.Line 775 We look behind; then view his shaggy Beard; His Cloaths were tagg'd with Thorns, and Filth his Limbs besmear'd: The rest, in Meen, in habit, and in Face, Appear'd a Greek; and such indeed he was. He cast on us, from far, a frightful view,Line 780 Whom soon for Trojans and for Foes he knew: Stood still, and paus'd; then all at once began To stretch his Limbs, and trembled as he ran. Soon as approach'd, upon his Knees he falls, And thus with Tears and Sighs for pity calls.Line 785 Now by the Pow'rs above, and what we share As Nature's common Gift, this vital Air, O Trojans take me hence: I beg no more, But bear me far from this unhappy Shore. 'Tis true I am a Greek, and farther own,Line 790 Among your Foes besieg'd th' Imperial Town; For such Demerits if my death be due, No more for this abandon'd life I sue:

This only Favour let my Tears obtain, To throw me headlong in the rapid Main:Line 795 Since nothing more than Death my Crime demands, I dye content, to dye by human Hands. He said, and on his Knees my Knees embrac'd, I bad him boldly tell his Fortune past; His present State, his Lineage and his Name;Line 800 Th' occasion of his Fears, and whence he came. The good Anchises rais'd him with his Hand; Who, thus encourag'd, answer'd our Demand: From Ithaca my native Soil I came To Troy, and Achaemenides my Name.Line 805 Me, my poor Father, with Ulysses sent; (Oh had I stay'd, with Poverty content!) But fearful for themselves, my Country-men Left me forsaken in the Cyclop's Den. The Cave, though large, was dark, the dismal FloreLine 810 Was pav'd with mangled Limbs and putrid Gore. Our monstrous Host, of more than Human Size, Erects his Head, and stares within the Skies. Bellowing his Voice, and horrid is his Hue. Ye Gods, remove this Plague from Mortal View!Line 815 The Joints of slaughter'd Wretches are his Food: And for his Wine he quaffs the streaming Blood. These Eyes beheld, when with his spacious Hand He seiz'd two Captives of our Grecian Band; Stretch'd on his Back, he dash'd against the StonesLine 820 Their broken Bodies, and their crackling Bones: With spouting Blood the Purple Pavement swims, While the dire Glutton grinds the trembling Limbs.

Not unreveng'd, Ulysses bore their Fate, Nor thoughtless of his own unhappy State:Line 825 For, gorg'd with Flesh, and drunk with Human Wine, While fast asleep the Gyant lay supine;

Snoaring aloud, and belching from his Maw His indigested Foam, and Morsels raw: We pray, we cast the Lots, and then surroundLine 830 The monstrous Body, stretch'd along the Ground: Each, as he cou'd approach him, lends a hand To bore his Eyeball with a flaming Brand. Beneath his frowning Forehead lay his Eye, (For onely one did the vast Frame supply;)Line 835 But that a Globe so large, his Front it fill'd, Like the Sun's disk, or like a Grecian Shield. The Stroke succeeds; and down the Pupil bends; This Vengeance follow'd for our slaughter'd Friends. But haste, unhappy Wretches, haste to fly;Line 840 Your Cables cut, and on your Oars rely. Such, and so vast as Polypheme appears, A hundred more this hated Island bears: Like him in Caves they shut their woolly Sheep, Like him, their Herds on tops of Mountains keep;Line 845 Like him, with mighty Strides, they stalk from Steep to Steep. And now three Moons their sharpen'd Horns renew Since thus in Woods and Wilds, obscure from view, I drag my loathsom Days with mortal Fright; And in deserted Caverns lodge by Night.Line 850 Oft from the Rocks a dreadful Prospect see, Of the huge Cyclops, like a walking Tree: From far I hear his thund'ring Voice resound; And trampling Feet that shake the solid Ground. Cornels, and salvage Berries of the Wood,Line 855 And Roots and Herbs have been my meagre Food.

While all around my longing Eyes I cast, I saw your happy Ships appear at last. On those I fix'd my hopes, to these I run, 'Tis all I ask this cruel Race to shun:Line 860

[illustration]

To W^m. Gibbons D^r.: in Physick

AE. 3. l. 865.

What other Death you please your selves, bestow. Scarce had he said, when on the Mountain's brow, We saw the Gyant-Shepherd stalk before His following Flock, and leading to the Shore. A monstrous Bulk, deform'd, depriv'd of Sight,Line 865 His Staff a trunk of Pine, to guide his steps aright. His pondrous Whistle from his Neck descends; His woolly Care their pensive Lord attends: This onely Solace his hard Fortune sends. Soon as he reach'd the Shore, and touch'd the Waves,Line 870 From his bor'd Eye the gutt'ring Blood he laves: He gnash'd his Teeth and groan'd; thro' Seas he strides, And scarce the topmost Billows touch'd his sides.

Seiz'd with a sudden Fear, we run to Sea, The Cables cut, and silent haste away:Line 875 The well deserving Stranger entertain; Then, buckling to the Work, our Oars divide the Main. The Gyant harken'd to the dashing Sound: But when our Vessels out of reach he found, He strided onward; and in vain essay'dLine 880 Th' Ionian Deep, and durst no farther wade. With that he roar'd aloud; the dreadful Cry Shakes Earth, and Air, and Seas; the Billows fly Before the bellowing Noise, to distant Italy. The neighb'ring Aetna trembled all around;Line 885 The winding Caverns echo to the sound. His brother Cyclops hear the yelling Roar; And, rushing down the Mountains, crowd the Shoar: We saw their stern distorted looks, from far, And one ey'd Glance, that vainly threatned War.Line 890 A dreadful Council, with their heads on high; The misty Clouds about their Foreheads fly: Not yielding to the tow'ring Tree of Jove; Or tallest Cypress of Diana's Grove. Line 895

New Pangs of mortal Fear our Minds assail,Line 895 We tug at ev'ry Oar, and hoist up ev'ry Sail; And take th' Advantage of the friendly Gale. Forewarn'd by Helenus, we strive to shun Charibdis Gulph, nor dare to Scylla run. An equal Fate on either side appears;Line 900 We, tacking to the left, are free from Fears. For from Pelorus Point, the North arose, And drove us back where swift Pantagias flows. His Rocky Mouth we pass; and make our Way By Thapsus, and Megara's winding Bay;Line 905 This Passage Achaemenides had shown, Tracing the Course which he before had run.

Right o're-against Plemmyrium's watry Strand, There lies an Isle once call'd th' Ortygian Land: Alphëus, as Old Fame reports, has foundLine 910 From Greece a secret Passage under-ground: By Love to beauteous Arethusa led, And mingling here, they rowl in the same Sacred Bed. As Helenus enjoyn'd, we next adore Diana's Name, Protectress of the Shore.Line 915 With prosp'rous Gales we pass the quiet Sounds Of still Elorus and his fruitsul Bounds. Then doubling Cape Pachynus, we survey The rocky Shore extended to the Sea. The Town of Camarine from far we see;Line 920 And fenny Lake undrain'd by Fates decree. In sight of the Geloan Fields we pass, And the large Walls, where mighty Gela was: Then Agragas with lofty Summets crown'd; Long for the Race of warlike Steeds renown'd:Line 925 We pass'd Selinus, and the Palmy Land, And widely shun the Lilybaean Strand, Unsafe, for secret Rocks, and moving Sand.

At length on Shore the weary Fleet arriv'd; Which Drepanum's unhappy Port receiv'd.Line 930 Here, after endless Labours, often tost By raging Storms, and driv'n on ev'ry Coast, My dear, dear Father, spent with Age, I lost. Ease of my Cares, and Solace of my Pain, Sav'd through a thousand Toils, but sav'd in vain:Line 935 The Prophet, who my future Woes reveal'd, Yet this, the greatest and the worst, conceal'd. And dire Celoeno, whose foreboding Skill Denounc'd all else, was silent of this Ill: This my last Labour was. Some friendly God,Line 940 From thence convey'd us to your blest Abode.

Thus to the listning Queen, the Royal Guest His wand'ring Course, and all his Toils express'd; And here concluding, he retir'd to rest.

The Fourth Book of the Aeneis.

The Argument.

Dido discovers to her Sister her Passion for Aeneas, and her thoughts of marrying him. She prepares a Hunting-Match for his Entertain∣ment. Juno by Venus's consent raises a Storm, which separates the Hunters, and drives Aeneas and Dido into the same Cave, where their Marriage is suppos'd to be compleated. Jupiter dis∣patches Mercury to Aeneas, to warn him from Carthage; Aeneas secretly prepares for his Voyage: Dido finds out his Design, and to put a stop to it, makes use of her own, and her Sister's Entreaties, and discovers all the variety of Passions that are incident to a neglect∣ed Lover: When nothing wou'd prevail upon him, she contrives her own Death, with which this Book concludes.

BUT anxious Cares already seiz'd the Queen: She fed within her Veins a Flame unseen: The Heroe's Valour, Acts, and Birth inspire Her Soul with Love, and fann the secret Fire. His Words, his Looks imprinted in her Heart,Line 5 Improve the Passion, and increase the Smart. Now, when the Purple Morn had chas'd away The dewy Shadows, and restor'd the Day; Her Sister first, with early Care she sought, And thus in mournful Accents eas'd her Thought.Line 10 My dearest Anna, what new Dreams affright My lab'ring Soul; what Visions of the Night Disturb my Quiet, and distract my Breast, With strange Ideas of our Trojan Guest? His Worth, his Actions, and Majestick Air,Line 15 A Man descended from the Gods declare: Fear never harbours in a Noble Mind, But Modesty, with just Assurance join'd.

[illustration]

To y^e Right Hon^ble. John Earle of Exeter Baron Coe∣cill of Burleigh &^ct

AE. 4. l: 1.

Then, what he suffer'd, when by Fate betray'd, What brave Attempts for falling Troy he made!Line 20 Such were his Looks, so gracefully he spoke, That were I not resolv'd against the Yoke Of hapless Marriage; never to be curs'd With second Love, so fatal was my first; To this one Error I might yield again:Line 25 For since Sichaeus was untimely slain, This onely Man, is able to subvert The fix'd Foundations of my stubborn Heart. And to confess my Frailty, to my shame, Somewhat I find within, if not the same,Line 30 Too like the Sparkles of my former Flame.

But first let yawning Earth a Passage rend; And let me through the dark Abyss descend; First let avenging Jove, with Flames from high, Drive down this Body, to the neather Sky,Line 35 Condemn'd with Ghosts in endless Night to lye; Before I break the plighted Faith I gave; No; he who had my Vows, shall ever have; For whom I lov'd on Earth, I worship in the Grave.

She said; the Tears ran gushing from her Eyes,Line 40 And stop'd her Speech: her Sister thus replies. O dearer than the vital Air I breath, Will you to Grief your blooming Years bequeath? Condem'd to wast in Woes, your lonely Life, Without the Joys of Mother, or of Wife.Line 45 Think you these Tears, this pompous Train of Woe, Are known, or valu'd by the Ghosts below? I grant, that while your Sorrows yet were green, It well became a Woman, and a Queen, The Vows of Tyrian Princes to neglect,Line 50 To scorn Hyarbas, and his Love reject;

With all the Lybian Lords of mighty Name, But will you fight against a pleasing Flame! This little Spot of Land, which Heav'n bestows, On ev'ry side is hemm'd with warlike Foes:Line 55 Getulian Cities here are spread around; And fierce Numidians there your Frontiers bound; Here lies a barren Wast of thirsty Land, And there the Syrtes raise the moving Sand: Barcaean Troops befiege the narrow Shore;Line 60 And from the Sea Pigmalion threatens more. Propitious Heav'n, and gracious Juno, lead This wand'ring Navy to your needful Aid: How will your Empire spread, your City rise From such an Union, and with such Allies!Line 65 Implore the Favour of the Pow'rs above; And leave the Conduct of the rest to Love. Continue still your hospitable way, And still invent occasions of their Stay; 'Till Storms, and winter Winds, shall cease to threat,Line 70 And Plancks and Oars, repair their shatter'd Fleet.

These Words, which from a Friend, and Sister came, With Ease resolv'd the Scruples of her Fame; And added Fury to the kindled Flame. Inspir'd with Hope, the Project they pursue;Line 75 On ev'ry Altar Sacrifice renew; A chosen Ewe of two Years old they pay To Ceres, Bacchus, and the God of Day: Preferring Juno's Pow'r: For Juno ties The Nuptial Knot, and makes the Marriage Joys.Line 80 The beauteous Queen before her Altar stands, And holds the Golden Goblet in her Hands: A milk-white Heifar she with Flow'rs adorns, And pours the ruddy Wine betwixt her Horns;

[illustration]

To the Lady Mary Giffard

AE. 4. l. 80.

And while the Priests with Pray'r the Gods invoke,Line 85 She feeds their Altars with Sabaean Smoke. With hourly Care the Sacrifice renews, And anxiously the panting Entrails Views. What Priestly Rites, alas! what Pious Art, What Vows avail to cure a bleeding Heart!Line 90 A gentle Fire she feeds within her Veins; Where the soft God secure in silence reigns.

Sick with desire, and seeking him she loves, From Street to Street, the raving Dido roves. So when the watchful Shepherd, from the Blind,Line 95 Wounds with a random Shaft the careless Hind; Distracted with her pain she flies the Woods, Bounds o're the Lawn, and seeks the silent Floods; With fruitless Care; for still the fatal Dart Sticks in her side; and ranckles in her Heart.Line 100 And now she leads the Trojan Chief, along The lofty Walls, amidst the buisie Throng; Displays her Tyrian Wealth, and rising Town, Which Love, without his Labour, makes his own. This Pomp she shows to tempt her wond'ring Guest;Line 105 Her falt'ring Tongue forbids to speak the rest. When Day declines, and Feasts renew the Night, Still on his Face she feeds her famish'd sight; She longs again to hear the Prince relate His own Adventures, and the Trojan Fate:Line 110 He tells it o're and o're; but still in vain; For still she begs to hear it, once again. The Hearer on the Speaker's Mouth depends; And thus the Tragick Story never ends.

Then, when they part, when Phoebe's paler LightLine 115 Withdraws, and falling Stars to Sleep invite, She last remains, when when ev'ry Guest is gone, Sits on the Bed he press'd, and sighs alone;

Absent, her absent Heroe sees and hears; Or in her Bosom young Ascanius bears:Line 120 And seeks the Father's Image in the Child, If Love by Likeness might be so beguil'd.

Mean time the rising Tow'rs are at a stand: No Labours exercise the youthful Band: Nor use of Arts, nor Toils of Arms they know;Line 125 The Mole is left unfinish'd to the Foe. The Mounds, the Works, the Walls, neglected lye, And, left unbuilt, are shorter of the Sky.

But when Imperial Juno, from above, Saw Dido fetter'd in the Chains of Love;Line 130 Hot with the Venom, which her Veins inflam'd, And by no sense of Shame to be reclaim'd: With soothing Words to Venus she begun. High Praises, endless Honours you have won, And mighty Trophees with your worthy Son:Line 135 Two Gods a silly Woman have undone. Nor am I ignorant, you both suspect This rising City, which my Hands erect: But shall Coelestial Discord never cease? 'Tis better ended in a lasting Peace.Line 140 You stand possess'd of all your Soul desir'd; Poor Dido with consuming Love is fir'd: Your Trojan with my Tyrian let us join, So Dido shall be yours, Aeneas mine: One common Kingdom, one united Line.Line 145 Elisa shall a Dardan Lord obey, And lofty Carthage for a Dow'r convey. Then Venus, who her hidden Fraud descry'd, (Which wou'd the Scepter of the World, misguide To Lybian Shores,) thus artfully reply'd,Line 150 Who but a Fool, wou'd Wars with Juno chuse, And such Alliance, and such Gifts refuse?

If Fortune with our joint Desires comply: The Doubt is all from Jove, and Destiny. Lest he forbid, with absolute Command,Line 155 To mix the People in one common Land. Or will the Trojan, and the Tyrian Line, In lasting Leagues, and sure Succession join? But you, the Partner of his Bed and Throne, May move his Mind; my Wishes are your own.Line 160

Mine, said Imperial Juno, be the Care; Time urges, now, to perfect this Affair: Attend my Counsel, and the Secret share. When next the Sun his rising Light displays, And guilds the World below, with Purple Rays;Line 165 The Queen, Aeneas, and the Tyrian Court, Shall to the shady Woods, for Silvan Game, resort. There, while the Huntsmen pitch their Toils around, And chearful Horns, from Side to Side, resound; A Pitchy Cloud shall cover all the PlainLine 170 With Hail, and Thunder, and tempestuous Rain: The fearful Train shall take their speedy Flight, Dispers'd, and all involv'd in gloomy Night: One Cave a grateful Shelter shall afford To the fair Princess, and the Trojan Lord.Line 175 I will my self, the bridal Bed prepare, If you, to bless the Nuptials, will be there: So shall their Loves be crown'd with due Delights, And Hymen shall be present at the Rites. The Queen of Love consents, and closely smilesLine 180 At her vain Project, and discover'd Wiles.

The rosy Morn was risen from the Main, And Horns and Hounds awake the Princely Train: They issue early through the City Gate, Where the more wakeful Huntsmen ready wait,Line 185

With Nets, and Toils, and Darts, beside the force Of Spartan Dogs, and swift Massylian Horse. The Tyrian Peers, and Officers of State, For the slow Queen, in Anti-Chambers wait: Her lofty Courser, in the Court below,Line 190 (Who his Majestick Rider seems to know,) Proud of his Purple Trappings, paws the Ground; And champs the Golden Bitt; and spreads the Foam around. The Queen at length appears: On either Hand The brawny Guards in Martial Order stand.Line 195 A flow'rd Cymarr, with Golden Fringe, she wore; And at her Back a Golden Quiver bore: Her flowing Hair, a Golden Caul restrains; A golden Clasp, the Tyrian Robe sustains. Then young Ascanius, with a sprightly Grace,Line 200 Leads on the Trojan Youth to view the Chace. But far above the rest in beauty shines The great Aeneas, when the Troop he joins: Like fair Apollo, when he leaves the frost Of wintry Xanthus, and the Lycian Coast;Line 205 When to his Native Delos he resorts, Ordains the Dances, and renews the Sports: Where painted Scythians, mix'd with Cretan Bands, Before the joyful Altars join their Hands. Himself, on Cynthus walking, sees belowLine 210 The merry Madness of the sacred Show. Green Wreaths of Bays his length of Hair inclose, A Golden Fillet binds his awful Brows: His Quiver sounds: Not less the Prince is seen In manly Presence, or in lofty Meen.Line 215

Now had they reach'd the Hills, and storm'd the Seat Of salvage Beasts, in Dens, their last Retreat; The Cry pursues the Mountain-Goats; they bound From Rock to Rock, and keep the craggy Ground:

[illustration]

To The Right Hon^ble. Hugh L^d Clifford Baron of Chudleigh in y^e County of Devon,

AE. 4. l. 230.

Quite otherwise the Stags, a trembling Train,Line 220 In Herds unsingl'd, scour the dusty Plain; And a long Chace, in open view, maintain. The glad Ascanius, as his Courser guides, Spurs through the Vale; and these and those outrides. His Horses flanks and sides are forc'd to feelLine 225 The clanking lash, and goring of the Steel. Impatiently he views the feeble Prey, Wishing some Nobler Beast to cross his way. And rather wou'd the tusky Boar attend, Or see the Lyon from the Hills descend.Line 230

Mean time, the gath'ring Clouds obscure the Skies; From Pole to Pole the forky Lightning flies; The ratling Thunders rowl; and Juno pours A wintry Deluge down; and founding Show'rs. The Company dispers'd, to Coverts ride,Line 235 And seek the homely Cotts, or Mountains hollow side. The rapid Rains, descending from the Hills, To rowling Torrents raise the creeping Rills. The Queen and Prince, as Love or Fortune guides, One common Cavern in her Bosom hides.Line 240 Then first the trembling Earth the signal gave; And flashing Fires enlighten all the Cave: Hell from below, and Juno from above, And howling Nymphs, were conscious to their Love. From this ill Omend Hour, in Time aroseLine 245 Debate and Death, and all succeeding woes.

The Queen whom sense of Honour cou'd not move No longer made a Secret of her Love; But call'd it Marriage, by that specious Name, To veil the Crime and sanctifie the Shame.Line 250

The loud Report through Lybian Cities goes; Fame, the great Ill, from fmall beginnings grows.

Swift from the first; and ev'ry Moment brings New Vigour to her flights, new Pinions to her wings. Soon grows the Pygmee to Gygantic size;Line 255 Her Feet on Earth, her Forehead in the Skies: Inrag'd against the Gods, revengful Earth Produc'd her last of the Titanian birth. Swift is her walk, more swift her winged hast: A monstrous Fantom, horrible and vast;Line 260 As many Plumes as raise her lofty flight, So many piercing Eyes inlarge her sight: Millions of opening Mouths to Fame belong; And ev'ry Mouth is furnish'd with a Tongue: And round with listning Ears the flying Plague is hung.Line 265 She fills the peaceful Universe with Cries; No Slumbers ever close her wakeful Eyes. By Day from lofty Tow'rs her Head she shews; And spreads through trembling Crowds disastrous News. With Court Informers haunts, and Royal Spies,Line 270 Things done relates, not done she feigns; and mingles Truth with Lyes. Talk is her business; and her chief delight To tell of Prodigies, and cause affright. She fills the Peoples Ears with Dido's Name; Who, lost to Honour, and the sense of Shame,Line 275 Admits into her Throne and Nuptial Bed A wandring Guest, who from his Country fled: Whole days with him she passes in delights; And wasts in Luxury long Winter Nights. Forgetful of her Fame, and Royal Trust;Line 280 Dissolv'd in Ease, abandon'd to her Lust.

The Goddess widely spreads the loud Report; And flies at length to King Hyarba's Court. When first possess'd with this unwelcome News, Whom did he not of Men and Gods accuse!Line 285

This Prince, from ravish'd Garamantis born, A hundred Temples did with Spoils adorn, In Ammon's Honour, his Coelestial Sire; A hundred Altars fed, with wakeful Fire: And through his vast Dominions, Priests ordain'd,Line 290 Whose watchful Care these holy Rites maintain'd. The Gates and Columns were with Garlands crown'd, And Blood of Victim Beasts enrich the Ground.

He, when he heard a Fugitive cou'd move The Tyrian Princess, who disdain'd his Love,Line 295 His Breast with Fury burn'd, his Eyes with Fire; Mad with Despair, impatient with Desire. Then on the Sacred Altars pouring Wine, He thus with Pray'rs implor'd his Sire divine. Great Jove, propitious to the Moorish Race,Line 300 Who feast on painted Beds, with Off'rings grace Thy Temples, and adore thy Pow'r Divine With offer'd Victims, and with sparkling Wine: Seest thou not this? or do we fear in vain Thy boasted Thunder, and thy thoughtless Reign?Line 305 Do thy broad Hands the forky Lightnings lance, Thine are the Bolts, or the blind work of Chance? A wandring Woman builds, within our State, A little Town, bought at an easie Rate; She pays me Homage, and my Grants allow,Line 310 A narrow space of Lybian Lands to plough. Yet scorning me, by Passion blindly led, Admits a banish'd Trojan to her Bed: And now this other Paris, with his Train Of conquer'd Cowards, must in Affrick reign!Line 315 (Whom, what they are, their Looks and Garb confess; Their Locks with Oil perfum'd, their Lydian dress:) He takes the Spoil, enjoys the Princely Dame; And I, rejected I, adore an empty Name.

His Vows, in haughty Terms, he thus preferr'd,Line 320 And held his Altar's Horns; the mighty Thund'rer heard, Then cast his Eyes on Carthage, where he found The lustful Pair, in lawless pleasure drown'd. Lost in their Loves, insensible of Shame; And both forgetful of their better Fame.Line 325 He calls Cyllenius; and the God attends; By whom his menacing Command he sends. Go, mount the Western Winds, and cleave the Skie; Then, with a swift descent, to Carthage fly: There find the Trojan Chief, who wastes his DaysLine 330 In sloathful Riot, and inglorious Ease. Nor minds the future City, giv'n by Fate; To him this Message from my Mouth relate. Not so, fair Venus hop'd, when twice she won Thy Life with Pray'rs; nor promis'd such a Son.Line 335 Hers was a Heroe, destin'd to command A Martial Race; and rule the Latian Land. Who shou'd his ancient Line from Teucer draw; And, on the conquer'd World, impose the Law. If Glory cannot move a Mind so mean,Line 340 Nor future Praise, from fading Pleasure wean, Yet why shou'd he defraud his Son of Fame; And grudge the Romans their Immortal Name! What are his vain Designs! what hopes he more, From his long ling'ring on a hostile Shore?Line 345 Regardless to redeem his Honour lost, And for his Race to gain th' Ausonian Coast! Bid him with Speed the Tyrian Court forsake; With this Command the slumb'ring Warrior wake.

Hermes obeys; with Golden Pinions bindsLine 350 His flying Feet, and mounts the Western Winds: And whether o're the Seas or Earth he flies, With rapid Force, they bear him down the Skies.

[illustration]

To John Walkeden of y^e. Inner Temple Esq:^r

AE. 4. l. 230.

But first he grasps within his awful Hand, The mark of Sov'raign Pow'r, his Magick Wand:Line 355 With this, he draws the Ghosts from hollow Graves, With this he drives them down the Stygian Waves; With this he seals in Sleep, the wakeful sight; And Eyes, though clos'd in Death restores to Light. Thus arm'd, the God begins his Airy Race;Line 360 And drives the racking Clouds along the liquid Space. Now sees the Tops of Atlas, as he flies; Whose brawny Back supports the starry Skies: Atlas, whose Head with Piny Forests crown'd, Is beaten by the Winds; with foggy Vapours bound.Line 365 Snows hide his Shoulders; from beneath his Chin The Founts of rolling Streams their Race begin: A beard of Yce on his large Breast depends: Here pois'd upon his Wings, the God descends. Then, rested thus, he from the tow'ring heightLine 370 Plung'd downward, with precipitated Flight: Lights on the Seas, and skims along the Flood: As Water-fowl, who seek their fishy Food, Less, and yet less, to distant Prospect show, By turns they dance aloft, and dive below:Line 375 Like these, the steerage of his Wings he plies; And near the surface of the Water flies. 'Till having pass'd the Seas, and cross'd the Sands, He clos'd his Wings, and stoop'd on Lybian Lands: Where Shepherds once were hous'd in homely Sheds,Line 380 Now Tow'rs within the Clouds, advance their Heads. Arriving there, he found the Trojan Prince, New Ramparts raising for the Town's defence: A Purple Scarf, with Gold embroider'd o're, (Queen Dido's Gift) about his Waste he wore;Line 385 A Sword with glitt'ring Gems diversify'd, For Ornament, not use, hung idly by his side.

Then thus, with winged Words, the God began; (Resuming his own Shape) degenerate Man, Thou Woman's Property, what mak'st thou here,Line 390 These foreign Walls, and Tyrian Tow'rs to rear? Forgetful of thy own? All pow'rful Jove, Who sways the World below, and Heav'n above, Has sent me down, with this severe Command: What means thy ling'ring in the Lybian Land?Line 395 If Glory cannot move a Mind so mean, Nor future Praise, from flitting Pleasure wean, Regard the Fortunes of thy rising Heir; The promis'd Crown let young Ascanius wear. To whom th' Ausonian Scepter, and the StateLine 400 Of Rome's Imperial Name, is ow'd by Fate. So spoke the God; and speaking took his flight, Involv'd in Clouds; and vanish'd out of sight.

The Pious Prince was seiz'd with sudden Fear; Mute was his Tongue, and upright stood his Hair:Line 405 Revolving in his Mind the stern Command, He longs to fly, and loaths the charming Land. What shou'd he say, or how shou'd he begin, What Course, alas! remains, to steer between Th' offended Lover, and the Pow'rful Queen!Line 410 This way, and that, he turns his anxious Mind, And all Expedients tries, and none can find: Fix'd on the Deed, but doubtful of the Means; After long Thought to this Advice he leans. Three Chiefs he calls, commands them to repairLine 415 The Fleet, and ship their Men with silent Care: Some plausible Pretence he bids them find, To colour what in secret he design'd. Himself, mean time, the softest Hours wou'd chuse, Before the Love-sick Lady heard the News.Line 420

And move her tender Mind, by slow degrees, To suffer what the Sov'raign Pow'r decrees: Jove will inspire him, when, and what to say: They hear with Pleasure, and with haste obey.

But soon the Queen perceives the thin Disguise;Line 425 (What Arts can blind a jealous Woman's Eyes!) She was the first to find the secret Fraud, Before the fatal News was blaz'd abroad. Love, the first Motions of the Lover hears, Quick to presage, and ev'n in Safety fears.Line 430 Nor impious Fame was wanting to report The Ships repair'd; the Trojans thick Resort, And purpose to forsake the Tyrian Court. Frantick with Fear, impatient of the Wound, And impotent of Mind, she roves the City round.Line 435 Less wild the Bacchanalian Dames appear, When, from afar, their nightly God they hear, And houl about the Hills, and shake the wreathy Spear. At length she finds the dear perfidious Man; Prevents his form'd Excuse, and thus began.Line 440 Base and ungrateful, cou'd you hope to fly, And undisover'd scape a Lover's Eye! Nor cou'd my Kindness your Compassion move, Nor plighted Vows, nor dearer bands of Love! Or is the Death of a despairing QueenLine 445 Not worth preventing, though too well foreseen? Even when the Wint'ry Winds command your stay, You dare the Tempests, and defie the Sea. False, as you are, suppose you were not bound To Lands unknown, and foreign Coasts to found;Line 450 Were Troy restor'd, and Priam's happy Reign, Now durst you tempt for Troy, the raging Main? See, whom you fly; am I the Foe you shun? Now by those holy Vows, so late begun, Line 455

By this right Hand, (since I have nothing moreLine 455 To challenge, but the Faith you gave before;) I beg you by these Tears too truly shed, By the new Pleasures of our Nuptial Bed; If ever Dido, when you most were kind, Were pleasing in your Eyes, or touch'd your Mind;Line 460 By these my Pray'rs, if Pray'rs may yet have Place, Pity the Fortunes of a falling Race. For you I have provok'd a Tyrant's Hate, Incens'd the Lybian, and the Tyrian State; For you alone I suffer in my Fame;Line 465 Bereft of Honour, and expos'd to Shame: Whom have I now to trust, (ungrateful Guest,) That only Name remains of all the rest! What have I left, or whither can I fly; Must I attend Pygmalion's Cruelty!Line 470 Or till Hyarba shall in Triumph lead A Queen, that proudly scorn'd his proffer'd Bed! Had you deferr'd, at least, your hasty Flight, And left behind some Pledge of our delight, Some Babe to bless the Mother's mournful sight;Line 475 Some young Aeneas, to supply your place; Whose Features might express his Father's Face; I should not then complain to live bereft Of all my Husband, or be wholly left.

Here paus'd the Queen; unmov'd he holds his Eyes,Line 480 By Jove's Command; nor suffer'd Love to rise, Tho' heaving in his Heart; and thus at length, replies. Fair Queen, you never can enough repeat Your boundless Favours, or I own my Debt: Nor can my Mind forget Eliza's Name,Line 485 While vital Breath inspires this Mortal Frame. This, only let me speak in my Defence, I never hop'd a secret Flight from hence:

Much less pretended to the Lawful Claim Of Sacred Nuptials, or, a Husband's Name.Line 490 For if indulgent Heav'n would leave me free, And not submit my Life to Fate's Decree, My Choice would lead me to the Trojan Shore, Those Reliques to review, their Dust adore; And Priam's ruin'd Palace to restore.Line 495 But now the Delphian Oracle Commands, And Fate invites me to the Latian Lands. That is the promis'd Place to which I steer, And all my Vows are terminated there. If you, a Tyrian, and a Stranger born,Line 500 With Walls and Tow'rs a Lybian Town adorn; Why may not we, like you, a Foreign Race, Like you seek shelter in a Foreign Place? As often as the Night obscures the Skies With humid Shades, or twinkling Stars arise,Line 505 Anchises angry Ghost in Dreams appears; Chides my delay, and fills my Soul with fears: And young Ascanius justly may complain, Of his defrauded Fate, and destin'd Reign. Ev'n now the Herald of the Gods appear'd,Line 510 Waking I saw him, and his Message heard. From Jove he came commission'd, Heav'nly bright With Radiant Beams, and manifest to Sight. The Sender and the Sent, I both attest, These Walls he enter'd, and those Words express'd.Line 515 Fair Queen, oppose not what the Gods command; Forc'd by my Fate, I leave your happy Land.

Thus, while he spoke, already She began, With sparkling Eyes, to view the guilty Man: From Head to Foot survey'd his Person o're,Line 520 Nor longer these outrageous Threats forbore.

False as thou art, and more than false, forsworn; Not sprung from Noble Blood, nor Goddess-born, But hewn from hardned Entrails of a Rock; And rough Hyrcanian Tygers gave thee suck.Line 525 Why shou'd I fawn, what have I worse to fear? Did he once look, or lent a list'ning Ear; Sigh'd when I sob'd, or shed one kindly Tear? All Symptoms of a base Ungrateful Mind, So foul, that which is worse, 'tis hard to find.Line 530 Of Man's Injustice, why shou'd I complain? The Gods, and Jove himself behold in vain Triumphant Treason, yet no Thunder flyes: Nor Juno views my Wrongs with equal Eyes; Faithless is Earth, and Faithless are the Skies!Line 535 Justice is fled, and Truth is now no more; I sav'd the Shipwrack'd Exile on my Shore: With needful Food his hungry Trojans fed; I took the Traytor to my Throne and Bed: Fool that I was—'tis little to repeatLine 540 The rest, I stor'd and Rigg'd his ruin'd Flect. I rave, I rave: A God's Command he pleads, And makes Heav'n accessary to his Deeds. Now Lycian Lotts, and now the Delian God; Now Hermes is employ'd from Jove's abode,Line 545 To warn him hence; as if the peaceful State Of Heav'nly Pow'rs were touch'd with Humane Fate! But go; thy flight no longer I detain; Go seek thy promis'd Kingdom through the Main: Yet if the Heav'ns will hear my Pious Vow,Line 550 The faithless Waves, not half so false as thou; Or secret Sands, shall Sepulchers afford To thy proud Vessels, and their perjur'd Lord. Then shalt thou call on injur'd Dido's Name; Dido shall come, in a black Sulph'ry flame;Line 555 When death has once dissolv'd her Mortal frame.

Shall smile to see the Traitor vainly weep, Her angry Ghost arising from the Deep, Shall haunt thee waking, and disturb thy Sleep. At least my Shade thy Punishment shall know;Line 560 And Fame shall spread the pleasing News below.

Abruptly here she stops: Then turns away Her loathing Eyes, and shuns the sight of Day. Amaz'd he stood, revolving in his Mind What Speech to frame, and what Excuse to find.Line 565 Her fearful Maids their fainting Mistress led; And softly laid her on her Iv'ry Bed.

But good Aeneas, tho' he much desir'd To give that Pity, which her Grief requir'd, Tho' much he mourn'd, and labour'd with his Love,Line 570 Resolv'd at length, obeys the Will of Jove: Reviews his Forces; they with early Care Unmoor their Vessels, and for Sea prepare. The Fleet is soon afloat, in all its Pride: And well calk'd Gallies in the Harbour ride.Line 575 Then Oaks for Oars they fell'd; or as they stood, Of its green Arms despoil'd the growing Wood. Studious of Flight: The Beach is cover'd o're With Trojan Bands that blacken all the Shore: On ev'ry side are seen, descending down,Line 580 Thick swarms of Souldiers loaden from the Town. Thus, in Battalia, march embody'd Ants, Fearful of Winter, and of future Wants, T' invade the Corn, and to their Cells convey The plunder'd Forrage of their yellow Prey.Line 585 The sable Troops, along the narrow Tracks, Scarce bear the weighty Burthen on their Backs: Some set their Shoulders to the pond'rous Grain; Some guard the Spoil, some lash the lagging Train; All ply their sev'ral Tasks, and equal Toil sustain.Line 590

What Pangs the tender Breast of Dido tore, When, from the Tow'r, she saw the cover'd Shore, And heard the Shouts of Sailors from afar, Mix'd with the Murmurs of the wat'ry War? All pow'rful Love, what Changes canst thou causeLine 595 In Human Hearts, subjected to thy Laws! Once more her haughty Soul the Tyrant bends; To Pray'rs and mean Submissions she descends. No female Arts or Aids she left untry'd, Nor Counsels unexplor'd, before she dy'd.Line 600 Look, Anna, look; the Trojans crowd to Sea, They spread their Canvass, and their Anchors weigh. The shouting Crew, their Ships with Garlands binds; Invoke the Sea-Gods, and invite the Winds. Cou'd I have thought this threatning Blow so near,Line 605 My tender Soul had been forewarn'd to bear. But do not you my last Request deny, With yon perfidious Man your Int'rest try; And bring me News, if I must live or dye. You are his Fav'rite, you alone can findLine 610 The dark recesses of his inmost Mind: In all his trusted Secrets you have part, And know the soft Approaches to his Heart. Haste then, and humbly seek my haughty Foe; Tell him, I did not with the Grecians goe;Line 615 Nor did my Fleet against his Friends employ, Nor swore the Ruin of unhappy Troy. Nor mov'd with Hands prophane his Father's Dust; Why shou'd he then reject a suit so just! Whom does he shun, and whither would he fly;Line 620 Can he this last, this only Pray'r deny! Let him at least his dang'rous Flight delay, Wait better Winds, and hope a calmer Sea.

The Nuptials he disclaims I urge no more; Let him pursue the promis'd Latian Shore.Line 625 A short delay is all I ask him now, A pause of Grief; an interval from Woe: 'Till my soft Soul be temper'd to sustain Accustom'd Sorrows, and inur'd to Pain. If you in Pity grant this one Request,Line 630 My Death shall leave you of my Crown possess'd. This mournful message, Pious Anna bears, And seconds, with her own, her Sister's Tears: But all her Arts are still employ'd in vain; Again she comes, and is refus'd again.Line 635 His harden'd Heart nor Pray'rs nor Threatnings move; Fate, and the God, had stop'd his Ears to Love.

As when the Winds their airy Quarrel try; Justling from ev'ry quarter of the Sky; This way and that, the Mountain Oak they bend,Line 640 His Boughs they shatter, and his Branches rend; With Leaves, and falling Mast, they spread the Ground, The hollow Vallies echo to the Sound: Unmov'd, the Royal Plant their Fury mocks; Or shaken, clings more closely to the Rocks:Line 645 Far as he shoots his tow'ring Head on high, So deep in Earth his fix'd Foundations lye. No less a Storm the Trojan Heroe bears; Thick Messages and loud Complaints he hears; And bandy'd Words, still beating on his Ears.Line 650 Sighs, Groans and Tears, proclaim his inward Pains, But the firm purpose of his Heart remains.

The wretched Queen, pursu'd by cruel Fate, Begins at length the light of Heav'n to hate: And loaths to live: Then dire Portents she sees,Line 655 To hasten on the Death her Soul decrees.

Strange to relate: for when before the Shrine She pours, in Sacrifice, the Purple Wine, The Purple Wine is turn'd to putrid Blood: And the white offer'd Milk, converts to Mud.Line 660 This dire Presage, to her alone reveal'd, From all, and ev'n her Sister, she conceal'd. A Marble Temple stood within the Grove, Sacred to Death, and to her murther'd Love; That honour'd Chappel she had hung aroundLine 665 With snowy Fleeces, and with Garlands crown'd: Oft, when she visited this lonely Dome, Strange Voices issu'd from her Husband's Tomb: She thought she heard him summon her away; Invite her to his Grave; and chide her stay.Line 670 Hourly 'tis heard, when with a bodeing Note The solitary Screech-Owl strains her Throat: And on a Chimney's top, or Turret's hight, With Songs obscene, disturbs the Silence of the Night. Besides, old Prophesies augment her Fears;Line 675 And stern Aeneas in her Dreams appears, ••••sdainful as by Day: She seems alone, To wander in her Sleep, thro ways unknown, Guidless and dark: or, in a Desart Plain, 〈◊〉〈◊〉 seek her Subjects, and to seek in vain. 〈…〉〈…〉k Pentheus, when distracted with his Fear, He saw two Suns, and double Thebes appear: Or mad Orestes, when his Mother's Ghost ••ull in his Face, infernal Torches tost; And shook her snaky locks: He shuns the sight, Flies o're the Stage, surpris'd with mortal fright; The Furies guard the Door; and intercept his flight.

Now, sinking underneath a load of Grief, From Death alone, she seeks her last Relief: Line 690

The Time and Means, resolv'd within her Breast,Line 690 She to her mournful Sister, thus address'd. (Dissembling hope, her cloudy front she clears, And a false Vigour in her Eyes appears.) Rejoice she said, instructed from above, My Lover I shall gain, or lose my Love.Line 695 Nigh rising Atlas, next the falling Sun, Long tracts of Ethiopian Clymates run: There, a Massylian Priestess I have found, Honour'd for Age; for Magick Arts renown'd: Th' Hesperian Temple was her trusted Care;Line 700 'Twas she supply'd the wakeful Dragons Fare. She Poppy-Seeds in Honey taught to steep; Reclaim'd his Rage; and sooth'd him into sleep. She watch'd the Golden Fruit; her Charms unbind The Chains of Love; or fix them on the Mind.Line 705 She stops the Torrents, leaves the Channel dry; Repels the Stars; and backward bears the Sky. The yawning Earth rebellows to her Call; Pale Ghosts ascend; and Mountain Ashes fall. Witness, ye Gods, and thou my better part,Line 710 How loth I am to try this impious Art! Within the secret Court, with silent Care, Erect a lofty Pile, expos'd in Air: Hang on the topmost part, the Trojan Vest; Spoils, Arms, and Presents of my faithless Guest.Line 715 Next, under these, the bridal Bed be plac'd, Where I my Ruin in his Arms embrac'd: All Relicks of the Wretch are doom'd to Fire; For so the Priestess, and her Charms require. Thus far she said, and farther Speech forbears:Line 720 A Mortal Paleness in her Face appears: Yet, the mistrustless Anna, could not find The secret Fun'ral, in these Rites design'd; Nor thought so dire a Rage possess'd her Mind. Line 725

Unknowing of a Train conceal'd so well,Line 725 She fear'd no worse than when Sichaeus fell: Therefore obeys. The fatal Pile they rear, Within the secret Court, expos'd in Air. The cloven Holms and Pines are heap'd on high; And Garlands on the hollow Spaces lye.Line 730 Sad Cypress, Vervain, Eugh, compose the Wreath; And ev'ry baleful green denoting Death. The Queen, determin'd to the fatal Deed, The Spoils and Sword he left, in order spread: And the Man's Image on the Nuptial Bed.Line 735

And now (the sacred Altars plac'd around) The Priestess enters, with her Hair unbound, And thrice invokes the Pow'rs below the Ground. Night, Erebus, and Chaos she proclaims, And threefold Hecat, with her hundred Names,Line 740 And three Diana's: next she sprinkles round, With feign'd Avernian Drops, the hallow'd ground; Culls hoary Simples, found by Phoebe's Light, With brazen Sickles reap'd at Noon of Night. Then mixes baleful Juices in the Bowl:Line 745 And cuts the Forehead of a new-born Fole; Robbing the Mother's love. The destin'd Queen Observes, assisting at the Rites obscene: A leaven'd Cake in her devoted Hands She holds, and next the highest Altar stands:Line 750 One tender Foot was shod, her other bare; Girt was her gather'd Gown, and loose her Hair. Thus dress'd, she summon'd with her dying Breath, The Heav'ns and Planets conscious of her Death: And ev'ry Pow'r, if any rules above,Line 755 Who minds, or who revenges injur'd Love.

'Twas dead of Night, when weary Bodies close Their Eyes in balmy Sleep, and soft Repose:

[illustration]

To Henry Tasburgh Esq of Bodney in y^e County of Norfolk.

AE. 4. l. 730.

The Winds no longer whisper through the Woods, Nor murm'ring Tides disturb the gentle Floods.Line 760 The Stars in silent order mov'd around, And Peace, with downy wings, was brooding on the ground. The Flocks and Herds, and parti-colour'd Fowl, Which haunt the Woods, or swim the weedy Pool; Stretch'd on the quiet Earth securely lay,Line 765 Forgetting the past Labours of the day. All else of Nature's common Gift partake; Unhappy Dido was alone awake. Nor Sleep nor Ease the Furious Queen can find, Sleep fled her Eyes, as Quiet fled her mind.Line 770 Despair, and Rage, and Love, divide her heart; Despair and Rage had some, but Love the greater part.

Then thus she said within her secret Mind: What shall I do, what Succour can I find! Become a Supplyant to Hyarba's Pride,Line 775 And take my turn, to Court and be deny'd! Shall I with this ungrateful Trojan go, Forsake an Empire, and attend a Foe? Himself I refug'd, and his Train reliev'd; Tis true; but am I sure to be receiv'd?Line 780 An Exile follows whom a Queen reliev'd! Can Gratitude in Trojan Souls have place! Laomedon still lives in all his Race! Then, shall I seek alone the Churlish Crew, Or with my Fleet their flying Sails pursue?Line 785 What force have I but those, whom scarce before I drew reluctant from their Native Shore? Will they again Embark at my desire, Once more sustain the Seas, and quit their second Tyre? Rather with Steel thy guilty Breast invade,Line 790 And take the Fortune thou thy self hast made.

Your pity, Sister, first seduc'd my Mind; Or seconded too well, what I design'd. These dear-bought Pleasures had I never known, Had I continu'd free, and still my own;Line 795 Avoiding Love; I had not found Despair: But shar'd with Salvage Beasts the Common Air. Like them a lonely life I might have led, Not mourn'd the Living, nor disturb'd the Dead. These Thoughts she brooded in her anxious Breast;Line 800 On Boord, the Trojan found more easie rest. Resolv'd to sail, in Sleep he pass'd the Night; And order'd all things for his early flight.

To whom once more the winged God appears; His former Youthful Meen and Shape he wears,Line 805 And with this new alarm invades his Ears. Sleep'st thou, O Goddess born! and can'st thou drown Thy needful Cares, so near a Hostile Town? Beset with Foes; nor hear'st the Western Gales Invite thy passage, and Inspire thy sails?Line 810 She harbours in her Heart a furious hate; And thou shalt find the dire Effects too late; Fix'd on Revenge, and Obstinate to die: Haste swiftly hence, while thou hast pow'r to fly. The Sea with Ships will soon be cover'd o're,Line 815 And blazing Firebrands kindle all the Shore. Prevent her rage, while Night obscures the Skies; And sail before the purple Morn arise. Who knows what Hazards thy Delay may bring? Woman's a various and a changeful Thing.Line 820 Thus Hermes in the Dream; then took his flight, Aloft in Air unseen; and mix'd with Night.

Twice warn'd by the Coelestial Messenger, The pious Pious arose with hasty fear: Line 825

Then rowz'd his drowsie Train without delay,Line 825 Haste to your banks; your crooked Anchors weigh; And spread your flying Sails, and stand to Sea. A God commands; he stood before my sight; And urg'd us once again to speedy flight. O sacred Pow'r, what Pow'r so e're thou art,Line 830 To thy bless'd Orders I resign my heart: Lead thou the way; protect thy Trojan Bands; And prosper the Design thy Will Commands. He said, and drawing forth his flaming Sword, His thund'ring Arm divides the many twisted Cord:Line 835 An emulating Zeal inspires his Train; They run, they snatch; they rush into the main. With headlong haste they leave the desert Shores, And brush the liquid Seas with lab'ring Oars.

Aurora now had left her Saffron Bed,Line 840 And beams of early Light the Heav'ns o'respread, When from a Tow'r the Queen, with wakeful Eyes, Saw Day point upward from the rosie Skies: She look'd to Seaward, but the Sea was void, And scarce in ken the sailing Ships descry'd:Line 845 Stung with despight, and furious with despair, She struck her trembling Breast, and tore her Hair. And shall th' ungrateful Traytor go, she said, My Land forsaken, and my Love betray'd? Shall we not Arm, not rush from ev'ry Street,Line 805 To follow, sink, and burn his perjur'd Fleet? Haste, haul my Gallies out, pursue the Foe: Bring flaming Brands, set sail, and swiftly row. What have I said? where am I? Fury turns My Brain; and my distemper'd Bosom burns.Line 855 Then, when I gave my Person and my Throne, This Hate, this Rage, had been more timely shown.

See now the promis'd Faith, the vaunted Name, The Pious Man, who, rushing through the Flame, Preserv'd his Gods; and to the Phrygian ShoreLine 860 The Burthen of his feeble Father bore! I shou'd have torn him piecemeal; strow'd in Floods His scatter'd Limbs, or left expos'd in Woods: Destroy'd his Friends and Son; and from the Fire Have set the reeking Boy before the Sire.Line 865 Events are doubtful, which on Battels wait; Yet where's the doubt, to Souls secure of Fate! My Tyrians, at their injur'd Queen's Command, Had toss'd their Fires amid the Trojan Band: At once extinguish'd all the faithless Name;Line 870 And I my self, in vengeance of my Shame, Had fall'n upon the Pile to mend the Fun'ral Flame. Thou Sun, who view'st at once the World below, Thou Juno, Guardian of the Nuptial Vow, Thou Hecat, hearken from thy dark abodes;Line 875 Ye Furies, Fiends, and violated Gods, All Pow'rs invok'd with Dido's dying breath, Attend her Curses, and avenge her death. If so the Fates ordain, and Jove commands, Th' ungrateful Wretch should find the Latian Lands,Line 880 Yet let a Race untam'd, and haughty Foes, His peaceful Entrance with dire Arms oppose; Oppress'd with Numbers in th' unequal Field, His Men discourag'd, and himself expell'd, Let him for Succour sue from place to place,Line 885 Torn from his Subjects, and his Son's embrace: First let him see his Friends in Battel slain; And their untimely Fate lament in vain: And when, at length, the cruell War shall cease; On hard Conditions may he buy his Peace.Line 890

Nor let him then enjoy supreme Command; But fall untimely, by some hostile Hand: And lye unbury'd on the barren Sand. These are my Pray'rs, and this my dying Will: And you my Tyrians ev'ry Curse fulfill.Line 895 Perpetual Hate, and mortal Wars proclaim, Against the Prince, the People, and the Name. These grateful Off'rings on my Grave bestow; Nor League, nor Love, the jarring Nations know: Now, and from hence in ev'ry future Age, When Rage excites your Arms, and Strength supplies the Rage:Line 900 Rise some Avenger of our Lybian Blood, With Fire and Sword pursue the perjur'd Brood: Our Arms, our Seas, our Shores, oppos'd to theirs, And the same hate descend on all our Heirs.Line 905

This said, within her anxious Mind she weighs The Means of cutting short her odious Days. Then to Sicheus's Nurse, she briefly said, (For when she left her Country, hers was dead) Go Barcè, call my Sister; let her CareLine 910 The solemn Rites of Sacrifice prepare: The Sheep, and all th' attoneing Off'rings bring; Sprinkling her Body from the Crystal Spring With living Drops: then let her come, and thou With sacred Fillets, bind thy hoary Brow.Line 915 Thus will I pay my Vows, to Stygian Jove; And end the Cares of my disastrous Love. Then cast the Trojan Image on the Fire; And as that burns, my Passion shall expire.

The Nurse moves onward, with officious Care,Line 920 And all the speed her aged Limbs can bear. But furious Dido, with dark Thoughts involv'd, Shook at the mighty Mischief she resolv'd.

With livid Spots distinguish'd was her Face, Red were her rowling Eyes, and discompos'd her Pace:Line 925 Ghastly she gaz'd, with Pain she drew her Breath, And Nature shiver'd at approaching Death.

Then swiftly to the fatal place she pass'd; And mounts the Fun'ral Pile, with furious haste. Unsheaths the Sword the Trojan left behind,Line 930 (Not for so dire an Enterprise design'd,) But when she view'd the Garments loosely spred, Which once he wore, and saw the conscious Bed, She paus'd, and, with a Sigh, the Robes embrac'd; Then on the Couch her trembling Body cast,Line 935 Repress'd the ready Tears, and spoke her last. Dear Pledges of my Love, while Heav'n so pleas'd, Receive a Soul, of Mortal Anguish eas'd: My fatal Course is finish'd; and I go A glorious Name, among the Ghosts below.Line 940 A lofty City by my Hands is rais'd; Pygmalion punish'd, and my Lord appeas'd. What cou'd my Fortune have afforded more, Had the false Trojan never touch'd my Shore! Then kiss'd the Couch; and must I die, she said;Line 945 And unreveng'd; 'tis doubly to be dead! Yet ev'n this Death with Pleasure I receive; On any Terms, 'tis better than to live. These Flames, from far, may the false Trojan view; These boding Omens his base flight pursue.Line 950 She said, and struck: Deep enter'd in her side The piercing Steel, with reeking Purple dy'd: Clog'd in the Wound the cruel Weapon stands; The spouting Blood came streaming on her Hands. Her sad Attendants saw the deadly Stroke,Line 955 And with loud Cries the sounding Palace shook.

Distracted from the fatal sight they fled; And thro the Town the dismal Rumor spread. First from the frighted Court, the Yell began, Redoubled thence from House to House it ran:Line 960 The groans of Men, with Shrieks, Laments, and Cries Of mixing Women, mount the vaulted Skies. Not less the Clamour, than if ancient Tyre, Or the new Carthage, set by Foes on Fire, The rowling Ruin, with their lov'd Abodes,Line 965 Involv'd the blazing Temples of their Gods. Her Sister hears, and, furious with Despair, She beats her Breast, and rends her yellow Hair: And calling on Eliza's Name aloud, Runs breathless to the Place, and breaks the Crowd.Line 970 Was all that Pomp of Woe for this prepar'd, These Fires, this Fun'ral Pile, these Altars rear'd; Was all this Train of Plots contriv'd, said she, All only to deceive unhappy me? Which is the worst, didst thou in Death pretendLine 975 To scorn thy Sister, or delude thy Friend! Thy summon'd Sister, and thy Friend had come: One Sword had serv'd us both, one common Tomb. Was I to raise the Pile, the Pow'rs invoke, Not to be present at the fatal Stroke?Line 980 At once thou hast destroy'd thy self and me; Thy Town, thy Senate, and thy Colony! Bring Water, bathe the Wound; while I in death Lay close my Lips to hers; and catch the flying Breath. This said, she mounts the Pile with eager haste;Line 985 And in her Arms the gasping Queen embrac'd: Her Temples chaf'd; and her own Garments tore To stanch the streaming Blood, and cleanse the Gore. Thrice Dido try'd to raise her drooping Head, And fainting thrice, fell grov'ling on the Bed.Line 990

Thrice op'd her heavy Eyes, and sought the Light, But having found it, sicken'd at the sight; And clos'd her Lids at last, in endless Night. Then Juno, grieving that she shou'd sustain A Death so ling'ring, and so full of Pain;Line 995 Sent Iris down, to free her from the Strife Of lab'ring Nature, and dissolve her Life. For since she dy'd, not doom'd by Heav'ns Decree, Or her own Crime; but Human Casualty; And rage of Love, that plung'd her in Despair,Line 1000 The Sisters had not cut the topmost Hair; Which Proserpine, and they can only know; Nor made her sacred to the Shades below. Downward the various Goodess took her flight; And drew a thousand Colours from the Light:Line 1005 Then stood above the dying Lover's Head, And said, I thus devote thee to the dead. This Off'ring to the Infernal Gods I bear: Thus while she spoke, she cut the fatal Hair; The strugling Soul was loos'd; and Life dissolv'd in Air.Line 1010

The Fifth Book of the Aeneis.

The Argument.

Aeneas setting sail from Africk, is driven by a Storm on the Coasts of Sicily: Where he is hospitably receiv'd by his friend Acestes, King of part of the Island, and born of Trojan Parentage. He applies himself to celebrate the Memory of his Father with Divine Honours: And accordingly institutes Funeral Games, and appoints Prizes for those who shou'd conquer in them. While the Ceremonies were per∣forming, Juno sends Iris to perswade the Trojan Women to burn the Ships, who upon her instigation set fire to them, which burnt four, and would have consum'd the rest, had not Jupiter by a miraculous Shower extinguish'd it. Upon this Aeneas by the advice of one of his Generals, and a Vision of his Father, builds a City for the Women, Old Men, and others, who were either unfit for War, or weary of the Voyage, and sails for Italy: Venus procures of Neptune a safe Voyage for him and all his Men, excepting only his Pilot Pali∣nurus, who was unfortunately lost.

[illustration]

To the most Illustrious Prince Charles Duke of S^t Albans Master Falconer to his Ma^ty. and Captaine of y^e Hon^ble. Band of Gen^t Pensioners

AE. 5. l. 2.

MEan time the Trojan cuts his wat'ry way, Fix'd on his Voyage, thro the curling Sea: Then, casting back his Eyes, with dire Amaze, Sees on the Punic Shore the mounting Blaze. The Cause unknown; yet his presaging Mind,Line 5 The Fate of Dido from the Fire divin'd: He knew the stormy Souls of Woman-kind: What secret Springs their eager Passions move, How capable of Death for injur'd Love. Dire Auguries from hence the Trojans draw;Line 10 'Till neither Fires, nor shining Shores they saw. Now Seas and Skies, their Prospect only bound; An empty space above, a floating Field around. But soon the Heav'ns with shadows were o'respread; A swelling Cloud hung hov'ring o're their Head:Line 15

Livid it look'd, (the threatning of a Storm;) Then Night and Horror Ocean's Face deform. The Pilot, Palinurus, cry'd aloud, What Gusts of Weather from that gath'ring Cloud My Thoughts presage; e're yet the Tempest roars,Line 20 Stand to your Tackle, Mates, and stretch your Oars; Contract your swelling Sails, and luff to Wind: The frighted Crew perform the Task assign'd. Then, to his fearless Chief, not Heav'n, said he, Tho Jove himself shou'd promise Italy,Line 25 Can stem the Torrent of this raging Sea. Mark how the shifting Winds from West arise, And what collected Night involves the Skies! Nor can our shaken Vessels live at Sea, Much less against the Tempest force their way;Line 30 'Tis Fate diverts our Course; and Fate we must obey. Not far from hence, if I observ'd aright The southing of the Stars, and Polar Light, Sicilia lies; whose hospitable Shores In safety we may reach with strugling Oars.Line 35 Aeneas then reply'd, too sure I find, We strive in vain against the Seas, and Wind: Now shift your Sails: What place can please me more Than what you promise, the Sicilian Shore; Whose hallow'd Earth Anchises Bones contains,Line 40 And where a Prince of Trojan Lineage reigns? The Course resolv'd, before the Western Wind They scud amain; and make the Port assign'd.

Mean time Acestes, from a lofty Stand, Beheld the Fleet descending on the Land;Line 45 And not unmindful of his ancient Race, Down from the Cliff he ran with eager Pace; And held the Heroe in a strict Embrace.

Of a rough Lybian Bear the Spoils he wore; And either Hand a pointed Jav'lin bore.Line 50 His Mother was a Dame of Dardan Blood; His Sire Crinisus, a Sicilian Flood; He welcomes his returning Friends ashore With plenteous Country Cates; and homely Store.

Now, when the following Morn had chas'd awayLine 55 The flying Stars, and light restor'd the Day, Aeneas call'd the Trojan Troops around; And thus bespoke them from a rising Ground. Off-spring of Heav'n, Divine Dardanian Race, The Sun revolving thro' th' Etherial Space,Line 60 The shining Circle of the Year has fill'd, Since first this Isle my Father's Ashes held: And now the rising Day renews the Year, (A Day for ever sad, for ever dear,) This wou'd I celebrate with Annual Games,Line 65 With Gifts on Altars pil'd, and holy Flames, Tho banish'd to Getulia's barren Sands, Caught on the Grecian Seas, or hostile Lands: But since this happy Storm our Fleet has driv'n, (Not, as I deem, without the Will of Heav'n,)Line 70 Upon these friendly Shores, and flow'ry Plains, Which hide Anchises, and his blest Remains; Let us with Joy perform his Honours due; And pray for prosp'rous Winds, our Voyage to renew. Pray, that in Towns, and Temples of our own,Line 75 The Name of great Anchises may be known; And yearly Games may spread the Gods renown. Our Sports, Acestes of the Trojan Race, With royal Gifts, ordain'd, is pleas'd to grace: Two Steers on ev'ry Ship the King bestows;Line 80 His Gods and ours, shall share your equal Vows.

Besides, if nine days hence, the rosy Morn Shall with unclouded Light the Skies adorn, That Day with solemn Sports I mean to grace; Light Gallies on the Seas, shall run a wat'ry Race.Line 85 Some shall in Swiftness for the Goal contend, And others try the twanging Bow to bend: The strong with Iron Gauntlets arm'd shall stand, Oppos'd in Combat on the yellow Sand. Let all be present at the Games prepar'd;Line 90 And joyful Victors wait the Just Reward. But now assist the Rites, with Garlands crown'd; He said, and first his Brows with Myrtle bound. Then Helymus, by his Example led, And old Acestes, each adorn'd his Head;Line 95 Thus, young Ascanius, with a sprightly Grace, His Temples ty'd, and all the Trojan Race.

Aeneas then advanc'd amidst the Train, By thousands follow'd thro' the fruitful Plain, To great Anchises Tomb: Which when he found,Line 100 He pour'd to Bacchus, on the hallow'd Ground, Two Bowls of sparkling Wine, of Milk two more, And two from offer'd Bulls of Purple Gore. With Roses then the Sepulchre he strow'd; And thus, his Father's Ghost bespoke aloud.Line 105 Hail, O ye Holy Manes; hail again Paternal Ashes, now review'd in vain! The Gods permitted not, that you, with me, Shou'd reach the promis'd Shores of Italy; Or Tiber's Flood, what Flood so e're it be.Line 110 Scarce had he finish'd, when, with speckled Pride, A Serpent from the Tomb began to glide; His hugy Bulk on sev'n high Volumes roll'd; Blue was his breadth of Back, but streak'd with scaly Gold: Line 115

Thus riding on his Curls, he seem'd to passLine 115 A rowling Fire along; and singe the Grass. More various Colours thro' his Body run, Than Iris when her Bow imbibes the Sun; Betwixt the rising Altars, and around, The sacred Monster shot along the Ground;Line 120 With harmless play amidst the Bowls he pass'd; And with his lolling Tongue assay'd the Taste: Thus fed with Holy Food, the wond'rous Guest Within the hollow Tomb retir'd to rest. The Pious Prince, surpri••'d at what he view'd,Line 125 The Fun'ral Honours with more Zeal renew'd: Doubtful if this the Place's Genius were, Or Guardian of his Father's Sepulchre. Five Sheep, according to the Rites, he slew; As many Swine, and Steers of sable Hue;Line 130 New gen'rous Wine he from the Goblets pour'd, And call'd his Fathers Ghost, from Hell restor'd. The glad Attendants in long Order come, Off'ring their Gifts at great Anchises Tomb: Some add more Oxen, some divide the Spoil,Line 135 Some place the Chargers on the grassy Soil; Some blow the Fires and offer'd Entrails broil.

Now came the Day desir'd; the Skies were bright With rosy Lustre of the rising Light: The bord'ring People, rowz'd by sounding FameLine 140 Of Trojan Feasts, and great Acestes Name; The crowded Shore with Acclamations fill, Part to behold, and part to prove their Skill. And first the Gifts in Publick view they place, Green Lawrel Wreaths, and Palm, (the Victors grace:)Line 145 Within the Circle, Arms and Tripods lye; Ingotts of Gold, and Silver, heap'd on high; And Vests embroider'd of the Tyrian dye.

The Trumpet's clangor then the Feast proclaims; And all prepare for their appointed Games.Line 150 Four Gallies first, which equal Rowers bear, Advancing, in the wat'ry Lists appear. The speedy Dolphin, that out-strips the Wind, Bore Mnestheus, Author of the Memmian kind: Gyas, the vast Chymaera's Bulk commands,Line 155 Which rising like a tow'ring City stands: Three Trojans tug at ev'ry lab'ring Oar; Three Banks in three degrees the Sailors bore; Beneath their sturdy Stroaks the Billows roar. Sergesthus, who began the Sergian Race,Line 160 In the great Centaur took the leading Place: Cloanthus on the Sea-green Scylla stood; From whom Cluentius draws his Trojan Blood.

Far in the Sea, against the foaming Shoar, There stands a Rock; the raging Billows roarLine 165 Above his Head in Storms; but when 'tis clear, Uncurl their ridgy Backs, and at his Foot appear. In Peace below the gentle Waters run; The Cormorants above, lye basking in the Sun. On this the Heroe fix'd an Oak in sight,Line 170 The mark to guide the Mariners aright. To bear with this, the Seamen stretch their Oars; Then round the Rock they steer, and seek the former Shoars. The Lots decide their place; above the rest, Each Leader shining in his Tyrian Vest:Line 175 The common Crew, with Wreaths of Poplar Boughs. Their Temples crown, and shade their sweaty Brows. Besmear'd with Oil, their naked Shoulders shine; All take their Seats, and wait the sounding sign. They gripe their Oars, and ev'ry panting BreastLine 180 Is rais'd by turns with Hope, by turns with Fear depress'd.

[illustration]

To the Right Hon^ble: Arthur Herbert Earle of Torrington & Baron of Torbay

AE 5 l: 160

The clangor of the Trumpet gives the Sign; At once they start, advancing in a Line: With shouts the Sailors rend the starry Skys, Lash'd with their Oars, the smoaky Billows rise;Line 185 Sparkles the briny Main, and the vex'd Ocean fries. Exact in time, with equal Strokes they row; At once the brushing Oars, and brazen prow Dash up the sandy Waves, and ope the Depths below. Not fiery Coursers, in a Chariot Race,Line 190 Invade the Field with half so swift a Pace. Not the fierce Driver with more Fury lends The sounding Lash; and, e're the Stroke descends, Low to the Wheels his pliant Body bends. The partial Crowd their Hopes and Fears divide;Line 195 And aid, with eager shouts, the favour'd Side. Cries, Murmurs, Clamours, with a mixing Sound, From Woods to Woods, from Hills to Hills rebound.

Amidst the loud Applauses of the Shore, Gyas outstrip'd the rest, and sprung before;Line 200 Cloanthus, better mann'd, pursu'd him fast; But his o're-masted Gally check'd his Haste. The Centaur, and the Dolphin, brush the brine With equal Oars, advancing in a Line: And now the mighty Centaur seems to lead,Line 205 And now the speedy Dolphin gets a head: Now Board to Board the rival Vessels row; The Billows lave the Skies, and Ocean groans below. They reach'd the Mark; proud Gyas and his Train, In Triumph rode the Victors of the Main:Line 210 But steering round, he charg'd his Pilot stand More close to Shore, and skim along the Sand. Let others bear to Sea. Menaetes heard, But secret shelves too cautiously he fear'd: And fearing, sought the Deep; and still aloof he steer'd.Line 215

With louder Cries the Captain call'd again; Bear to the rocky Shore, and shun the Main. He spoke, and speaking at his stern he saw The bold Cloanthus near the Shelvings draw; Betwixt the mark and him the Scylla stood,Line 220 And in a closer Compass plow'd the Flood, He pass'd the Mark; and wheeling got before; Gyas blasphem'd the Gods, devoutly swore, Cry'd out for Anger, and his Hair he tore. Mindless of others Lives, (so high was grownLine 225 His rising Rage,) and careless of his own: The trembling Dotard to the Deck he drew, Then hoisted up, and over-board he threw, This done he seiz'd the Helm; his Fellows cheer'd; Turn'd short upon the Shelfs, and madly steer'd.Line 230

Hardly his Head, the plunging Pilot rears, Clog'd with his Cloaths, and cumber'd with his Years: Now dropping wet, he climbs the Cliff with Pain; The Crowd that saw him fall, and float again, Shout from the distant Shore; and loudly laught,Line 235 To see his heaving Breast disgorge the briny Draught. The following Centaur, and the Dolphin's Crew, Their vanish'd hopes of Victory renew: While Gyas lags, they kindle in the Race, To reach the Mark; Sergesthus takes the place:Line 240 Mnestheus pursues; and while around they wind, Comes up, not half his Gally's length behind. Then, on the Deck amidst his Mates appear'd, And thus their drooping Courages he cheer'd. My Friends, and Hector's Followers heretofore;Line 245 Exert your Vigour, tug the lab'ring Oar; Stretch to your Stroaks, my still unconquer'd Crew, Whom from the flaming Walls of Troy I drew.

In this, our common Int'rest, let me find That strength of Hand, that courage of the Mind,Line 250 As when you stem'd the strong Malaean Flood, And o're the Syrtes broken Billows row'd. I seek not now the foremost Palm to gain; Tho yet—But ah, that haughty Wish is vain! Let those enjoy it whom the Gods ordain.Line 255 But to be last, the Lags of all the Race, Redeem your selves and me from that Disgrace. Now one and all, they tug amain; they row At the full stretch, and shake the Brazen Prow. The Sea beneath 'em sinks; their lab'ring sidesLine 260 Are swell'd, and Sweat runs gutt'ring down in Tides. Chance aids their daring with unhop'd Success; Sergesthus, eager with his Beak, to press Betwixt the Rival Gally and the Rock; Shuts up th' unwieldy Centaur in the Lock.Line 265 The Vessel struck, and with the dreadful shock Her Oars she shiver'd, and her Head she broke. The trembling Rowers from their Banks arise, And anxious for themselves renounce the Prize. With Iron Poles they heave her off the Shores;Line 270 And gather, from the Sea, their floating Oars. The Crew of Mnestheus, with elated Minds, Urge their Success, and call the willing Winds: Then ply their Oars, and cut their liquid way; In larger Compass on the roomy Sea.Line 275 As when the Dove her Rocky Hold forsakes, Rowz'd in a Fright, her sounding Wings she shakes The Cavern rings with clatt'ring; out she flies, And leaves her Callow Care, and cleaves the Skies; At first she flutters; but at length she springs,Line 280 To smoother flight, and shoots upon her Wings:

So Mnestheus in the Dolphin cuts the Sea, And flying with a force, that force assists his Way. Sergesthus in the Centaur soon he pass'd, Wedg'd in the Rocky Sholes, and sticking fast.Line 285 In vain the Victor he with Cries implores, And practices to row with shatter'd Oars. Then Mnestheus bears with Gyas, and out-flies: The Ship without a Pilot yields the Prize. Unvanquish'd Scylla now alone remains;Line 290 Her he pursues; and all his vigour strains. Shouts from the fav'ring Multitude arise, Applauding Echo to the Shouts replies; Shouts, Wishes, and Applause run ratling through the Skies. These Clamours with disdain the Scylla heard;Line 295 Much grudg'd the Praise, but more the rob'd Reward: Resolv'd to hold their own, they mend their pace; All obstinate to dye, or gain the Race. Rais'd with Success, the Dolphin swistly ran, (For they can Conquer who believe they can:)Line 300 Both urge their Oars, and Fortune both supplies; And both, perhaps had shar'd an equal Prize; When to the Seas Cloanthus holds his Hands, And Succour from the Watry Pow'rs Demands: Gods of the liquid Realms, on which I row,Line 305 If giv'n by you, the Lawrel bind my Brow, Assist to make me guilty of my Vow. A Snow-white Bull shall on your Shore be slain, His offer'd Entrails cast into the Main; And ruddy Wine from Golden Goblets thrown,Line 310 Your grateful Gift and my Return shall own. The Quire of Nymphs, and Phorcus from below, With Virgin Panopea, heard his Vow; And old Portunus, with his breadth of Hand, Push'd on, and sped the Gally to the Land.Line 315

Swift as a Shaft, or winged Wind, she flies; And darting to the Port, obtains the Prize.

The Herald summons all, and then proclaims Cloanthus Conqu'ror of the Naval Games. The Prince with Lawrel crowns the Victor's Head,Line 320 And three fat Steers are to his Vessel led; The Ships Reward: with gen'rous Wine beside; And Sums of Silver, which the Crew divide. The Leaders are distinguish'd from the rest; The Victor honour'd with a nobler Vest:Line 325 Where Gold and Purple strive in equal Rows; And Needle-work its happy Cost bestows. There, Ganymede is wrought with living Art, Chasing thro' Ida's Groves the trembling Hart: Breathless he seems, yet eager to pursue;Line 330 When from aloft, descends in open view, The Bird of Jove; and sowsing on his Prey, With crooked Tallons bears the Boy away. In vain, with lifted Hands, and gazing Eyes, His Guards behold him soaring thro' the Skies;Line 335 And Dogs pursue his Flight, with imitated Cries.

Mnestheus the second Victor was declar'd; And summon'd there, the second Prize he shar'd. A Coat of Mail, which brave Demoleus bore; More brave Aeneas from his Shoulders tore;Line 340 In single Combat on the Trojan Shore. This was ordain'd for Mnestheus to possess; In War for his Defence; for Ornament in Peace. Rich was the Gift, and glorious to behold; But yet so pond'rous with its Plates of Gold,Line 345 That scarce two Servants cou'd the Weight sustain; Yet, loaded thus, Demoleus o're the Plain Pursu'd, and lightly seiz'd the Trojan Train.

The Third succeeding to the last Reward, Two goodly Bowls of Massy Silver shar'd;Line 350 With Figures prominent, and richly wrought: And two Brass Caldrons from Dodona brought.

Thus, all rewarded by the Heroe's hands, Their conqu'ring Temples bound with Purple Bands. And now Sergesthus, clearing from the Rock,Line 355 Brought back his Gally shatter'd with the shock. Forlorn she look'd, without an aiding Oar; And howted, by the Vulgar, made to Shoar. As when a Snake, surpris'd upon the Road, Is crush'd athwart her Body by the loadLine 360 Of heavy Wheels; or with a Mortal Wound Her Belly bruis'd, and trodden to the Ground: In vain, with loosen'd curls, she crawls along, Yet fierce above, she brandishes her Tongue: Glares with her Eyes, and bristles with her Scales,Line 365 But groveling in the Dust, her parts unsound she trails. So slowly to the Port the Centaur tends, But what she wants in Oars, with Sails amends: Yet, for his Gally sav'd, the grateful Prince, Is pleas'd th' unhappy Chief to recompence.Line 370 Pholoe, the Cretan Slave, rewards his Care, Beauteous her self, with lovely Twins, as fair.

From thence his way the Trojan Heroe bent, Into the neighb'ring Plain, with Mountains pent; Whose sides were shaded with surrounding Wood:Line 375 Full in the midst of this fair Vally stood A Native Theatre, which rising flow, By just degrees, o're-look'd the Ground below. High on a Sylvan Throne the Leader sate; A num'rous Train attend in Solemn State;Line 380 Here those, that in the rapid Course delight, Desire of Honour, and the Prize invite.

The Rival Runners, without Order stand, The Trojans, mix'd with the Sicilian Band. First Nisus, with Euryalus, appears,Line 385 Euryalus a Boy of blooming Years; With sprightly Grace, and equal Beauty crown'd: Nisus, for Friendship to the Youth, renown'd. Diores, next, of Priam's Royal Race, Then Salius, join'd with Patron took their Place:Line 390 But Patron in Arcadia had his Birth, And Salius his, from Acarnanian Earth. Then two Sicilian Youths, the Names of these Swift Helymus, and lovely Panopes: Both jolly Huntsmen, both in Forests bred,Line 395 And owning old Acestes for their Head. With sev'ral others of Ignobler Name; Whom Time has not deliver'd o're to Fame.

To these the Heroe thus his Thoughts explain'd, In Words, which gen'ral Approbation gain'd. One common Largess is for all design'd: The Vanquish'd and the Victor shall be join'd. Two Darts of polish'd Steel, and Gnosian Wood, A Silver'd studded Ax alike bestow'd. The foremost three have Olive Wreaths decreed;Line 405 The first of these obtains a stately Steed Adorn'd with Trappings; and the next in Fame, The Quiver of an Amazonian Dame; With feather'd Thracian Arrows well supply'd, A Golden Belt shall gird his Manly side;Line 410 Which with a sparkling Diamond shall be ty'd: The third this Grecian Helmet shall content. He said; to their appointed Base they went: With beating Hearts th' expected Sign receive, And, starting all at once, the Barrier leave.Line 415

Spread out, as on the winged Winds, they flew, And seiz'd the distant Goal with greedy view. Shot from the Crowd, swift Nisus all o're-pass'd; Nor Storms, nor Thunder, equal half his haste. The next, but tho' the next, yet far dis-join'd,Line 420 Came Salius, and Euryalus behind; Then Helymus, whom young Diores ply'd, Step after step, and almost side by side: His Shoulders pressing, and in longer Space, Had won, or left at least a dubious Race.Line 425

Now spent, the Goal they almost reach at last; When eager Nisus, hapless in his haste, Slip'd first, and slipping, fell upon the Plain, Soak'd with the Blood of Oxen, newly slain: The careless Victor had not mark'd his way;Line 430 But treading where the treach'rous Puddle lay, His Heels flew up; and on the grassy Floor, He fell, besmear'd with Filth, and Holy Gore. Not mindless then, Euryalus, of thee, Nor of the Sacred Bonds of Amity;Line 435 He strove th' immediate Rival's hope to cross; And caught the Foot of Salius as he rose: So Salius lay extended on the Plain; Euryalus springs out, the Prize to gain; And leaves the Crowd; applauding Peals attendLine 440 The Victor to the Goal, who vanquish'd by his Friend. Next Helymus, and then Diores came; By two Misfortunes made the third in Fame.

But Salius enters; and, exclaiming loud For Justice, deafens, and disturbs the Crowd:Line 445 Urges his Cause may in the Court be heard; And pleads the Prize is wrongfully conferr'd. But Favour for Euryalus appears; His blooming Beauty, with his tender Tears,

[illustration]

To Anthony Ham∣mond of Somersham in the County of Huntingdon Esq^r.

AE 5. l: 425.

Had brib'd the Judges to protect his Claim;Line 450 Besides Diores does as loud exclaim: Who vainly reaches at the last Reward, If the first Palm on Salius be conferr'd. Then thus the Prince; let no Disputes arise: Where Fortune plac'd it, I award the Prize.Line 455 But Fortune's Errors give me leave to mend, At least to pity my deserving Friend. He said, and from among the Spoils, he draws, (Pond'rous with shaggy Main, and Golden Paws) A Lyon's Hide; to Salius this he gives:Line 460 Nisus, with Envy sees the Gift, and grieves. If such Rewards to vanquish'd Men are due, He said, and Falling is to rise by you, What Prize may Nisus from your Bounty claim, Who merited the first Rewards and Fame?Line 465 In falling, both an equal Fortune try'd; Wou'd Fortune for my Fall so well provide! With this he pointed to his Face, and show'd His Hands, and all his Habit smear'd with Blood. Th' indulgent Father of the People smil'd;Line 470 And caus'd to be produc'd an ample Shield; Of wond'rous Art by Didymaon wrought, Long since from Neptune's Bars in Triumph brought. This giv'n to Nisus; he divides the rest; And equal Justice, in his Gifts, express'd.Line 475 The Race thus ended, and Rewards bestow'd; Once more the Prince bespeaks th' attentive Crowd. If there be here, whose dauntless Courage dare In Gauntlet fight, with Limbs and Body bare, His Opposite sustain in open view,Line 480 Stand forth the Champion; and the Games renew. Two Prizes I propose, and thus divide, A Bull with gilded Horns, and Fillets ty'd,

Shall be the Portion of the conqu'ring Chief: A Sword and Helm shall chear the Loser's Grief.Line 485

Then haughty Dares in the Lists appears; Stalking he strides, his Head erected bears: His nervous Arms the weighty Gauntlet weild; And loud Applauses echo thro' the Field. Dares alone, in Combat us'd to standLine 490 The match of mighty Paris hand to hand: The same, at Hector's Fun'rals undertook Gygantick Butes, of th' Amician Stock; And by the Stroak of his resistless Hand, Stretch'd the vast Bulk upon the yellow Sand.Line 495 Such Dares was; and such he strod along, And drew the Wonder of the gazing Throng. His brawny Back, and ample Breast he shows; His lifted Arms around his Head he throws; And deals, in whistling Air, his empty Blows.Line 500 His Match is sought; but thro' the trembling Band, Not one dares answer to the proud Demand. Presuming of his Force, with sparkling Eyes, Already he devours the promis'd Prize. He claims the Bull with awless Insolence;Line 505 And having seiz'd his Horns, accosts the Prince. If none my matchless Valour dares oppose, How long shall Dares wait his dastard Foes? Permit me, Chief, permit without Delay, To lead this uncontended Gift away.Line 510 The Crowd assents; and, with redoubled Cries, For the proud Challenger demands the Prize.

Acestes, fir'd with just Disdain, to see The Palm usurp'd without a Victory; Reproch'd Entellus thus, who sate beside,Line 515 And heard, and saw unmov'd, the Trojan's Pride:

Once, but in vain, a Champion of Renown, So tamely can you bear the ravish'd Crown? A Prize in triumph born before your sight, And shun for fear the danger of the Fight?Line 520 Where is our Eryx now, the boasted Name, The God who taught your thund'ring Arm the Game; Where now your baffled Honour, where the Spoil That fill'd your House, and Fame that fill'd our Isle? Entellus, thus: My Soul is still the same,Line 525 Unmov'd with Fear, and mov'd with Martial Fame: But my chill Blood is curdled in my Veins; And scarce the Shadow of a Man remains. Oh, cou'd I turn to that fair Prime again, That Prime, of which this Boaster is so vain,Line 530 The Brave who this decrepid Age defies, Shou'd feel my force, without the promis'd Prize. He said, and rising at the word, he threw Two pond'rous Gauntlets down, in open view: Gauntlets, which Eryx wont in Fight to wield,Line 535 And sheath his hands with in the listed field. With Fear and Wonder seiz'd, the Crowd beholds The Gloves of Death, with sev'n distinguish'd folds, Of tough Bull Hides; the space within is spread With Iron, or with loads of heavy Lead.Line 540 Dares himself was daunted at the sight, Renounc'd his Challenge, and refus'd to fight. Astonish'd at their weight the Heroe stands, And poiz'd the pond'rous Engins in his hands. What had your wonder, said Entellus, been,Line 545 Had you the Gauntlets of Alcides seen, Or view'd the stern debate on this unhappy Green! These which I bear, your Brother Eryx bore, Still mark'd with batter'd Brains, and mingled Gore. Line 550

With these he long sustain'd th' Herculean Arm;Line 550 And these I weilded while my Blood was warm: This languish'd Frame, while better Spirits fed, E're Age unstrung my Nerves, or Time o'resnow'd my Head. But if the Challenger these Arms refuse, And cannot wield their weight, or dare not use;Line 555 If great Aeneas, and Acestes joyn In his Request, these Gauntlets I resign: Let us with equal Arms perform the Fight, And let him leave to Fear, since I resign my Right. This said, Entellus for the Strife prepares;Line 560 Strip'd of his quilted Coat, his Body bares: Compos'd of mighty Bones and Brawn, he stands, A goodly tow'ring Obj••ct on the Sands. Then just Aeneas equal Arms supply'd, Which round their Shoulders to their Wrists they ty'd.Line 565 Both on the tiptoe stand, at full extent, Their Arms aloft, their Bodies inly bent; Their Heads from aiming Blows they bear a far; With clashing Gauntlets then provoke the War. One on his Youth and pliant Limbs relies;Line 570 One on his Sinews, and his Gyant size. The last is stiff with Age, his Motion slow, He heaves for Breath, he staggers to and fro; And Clouds of issuing Smoak his Nostrils loudly blow. Yet equal in Success, they ward, they strike;Line 575 Their ways are diff'rent, but their Art alike. Before, behind, the blows are dealt; around Their hollow sides the ratling Thumps resound. A Storm of Strokes, well meant, with fury flies, And errs about their Temples, Ears, and Eyes.Line 580 Nor always errs; for oft the Gauntlet draws A sweeping stroke, along the crackling Jaws.

[illustration]

To Henry S^t John of Lydiard Tregoz Esq^r.

AE 5. l: 590.

Heavy with Age, Entellus stands his Ground, But with his warping Body wards the Wound. His Hand, and watchful Eye keep even pace;Line 585 While Dares traverses, and shifts his place. And like a Captain, who beleaguers round, Some strong built Castle, on a rising Ground, Views all th' approaches with observing Eyes, This, and that other part, in vain he tries;Line 590 And more on Industry, than Force relies. With Hands on high, Entellus threats the Foe; But Dares watch'd the Motion from below, And slip'd aside, and shun'd the long descending Blow. Entellus wasts his Forces on the Wind;Line 595 And thus deluded of the Stroke design'd, Headlong, and heavy fell: his ample Breast, And weighty Limbs, his ancient Mother press'd. So falls a hollow Pine, that long had stood On Ida's height, or Erymanthus Wood,Line 600 Torn from the Roots: the diff'ring Nations rise, And Shouts, and mingl'd Murmurs, rend the Skies. Acestes runs, with eager haste, to raise The fall'n Companion of his youthful Days: Dauntless he rose, and to the Fight return'd:Line 605 With shame his glowing Cheeks, his Eyes with fury burn'd. Disdain, and conscious Virtue fir'd his Breast; And with redoubled Force his Foe he press'd. He lays on load with either Hand, amain, And headlong drives the Trojan o're the Plain.Line 610 Nor stops, nor stays; nor rest, nor Breath allows, But Storms of Strokes descend about his Brows; A ratling Tempest, and a Hail of Blows. But now the Prince, who saw the wild Increase Of Wounds, commands the Combatants to cease:Line 615 And bounds Entellus Wrath, and bids the Peace.

First to the Trojan spent with Toil he came, And sooth'd his Sorrow for the suffer'd Shame. What Fury seiz'd my Friend, the Gods, said he, To him propitious, and averse to thee,Line 620 Have giv'n his Arm superior Force to thine; 'Tis Madness to contend with Strength Divine. The Gauntlet Fight thus ended, from the Shore, His faithful Friends unhappy Dares bore: His Mouth and Nostrils, pour'd a Purple Flood;Line 625 And pounded Teeth, came rushing with his Blood. Faintly he stagger'd thro the hissing Throng; And hung his Head, and trail'd his Legs along. The Sword and Casque, are carry'd by his Train; But with his Foe the Palm and Ox remain.Line 630

The Champion, then, before Aeneas came, Proud of his Prize; but prouder of his Fame; O Goddess-born, and you Dardanian Host, Mark with Attention, and forgive my Boast: Learn what I was, by what remains; and knowLine 653 From what impending Fate, you sav'd my Foe. Sternly he spoke; and then confronts the Bull; And, on his ample Forehead, aiming full, The deadly Stroke descending, pierc'd the Skull. Down drops the Beast; nor needs a second Wound:Line 640 But sprawls in pangs of Death; and spurns the Ground. Then, thus: In Dares stead I offer this; Eryx, accept a nobler Sacrifice: Take the last Gift my wither'd Arms can yield, Thy Gauntlets I resign; and here renounce the Field.Line 645

This done, Aeneas orders, for the close, The strife of Archers, with contending Bows. The Mast, Sergesthus shatter'd Gally bore, With his own Hands, he raises on the Shore.

[illustration]

To Stephen Waller D^r: of Laws

AE. 5. l. 645.

Line 650

Line 650

A flutt'ring Dove upon the Top they tye,Line 650 The living Mark, at which their Arrows fly. The rival Archers in a Line advance; Their turn of Shooting to receive from Chance. A Helmet holds their Names: The Lots are drawn, On the first Scroll was read Hippocoon:Line 655 The People shout; upon the next was found Young Mnestheus, late with Naval Honours crownd. The third contain'd Eurytion's Noble Name, Thy Brother, Pandarus, and next in Fame: Whom Pallas urg'd the Treaty to confound,Line 660 And send among the Greeks a feather'd Wound. Acestes in the bottom, last remain'd; Whom not his Age from Youthful Sports restrain'd. Soon, all with Vigour bend their trusty Bows, And from the Quiver each his Arrow chose,Line 665 Hippocoon's was the first: with forceful sway It flew, and, whizzing, cut the liquid way: Fix'd in the Mast the feather'd Weapon stands, The fearful Pidgeon flutters in her Bands; And the Tree trembled: and the shouting CriesLine 670 Of the pleas'd People, rend the vaulted Skies. Then Mnestheus to the head his Arrow drove, With lifted Eyes; and took his Aim above; But made a glancing Shot, and miss'd the Dove. Yet miss'd so narrow, that he cut the CordLine 675 Which fasten'd, by the Foot, the flitting Bird. The Captive thus releas'd, away she flies, And beats with clapping Wings, the yielding Skies. His Bow already bent, Eurytion stood, And having first invok'd his Brother God,Line 680 His winged Shaft with eager haste he sped; The fatal Message reach'd her as she fled:

She leaves her Life aloft, she strikes the Ground; And renders back the Weapon in the Wound. Acestes grudging at his Lot, remains,Line 685 Without a Prize to gratifie his Pains. Yet shooting upward, sends his Shaft, to show An Archer's Art, and boast his twanging Bow. The pointed Arrow gave a dire Portent; And latter Augures judge from this Event.Line 690 Chaf'd by the speed, it fir'd; and as it flew, A Trail of following Flames, ascending drew: Kindling they mount; and mark the shiny Way: Across the Skies as falling Meteors play, And vanish into Wind; or in a Blaze decay.Line 695 The Trojans and Sicilians wildly stare: And trembling, turn their Wonder into Pray'r. The Dardan Prince put on a smiling Face, And strain'd Acestes with a close Embrace: Then hon'ring him with Gifts above the rest,Line 700 Turn'd the bad Omen, nor his Fears confess'd. The Gods, said he, this Miracle have wrought; And order'd you the Prize without the Lot. Accept this Goblet rough with figur'd Gold, Which Thracian Cisseus gave my Sire of old:Line 705 This Pledge of ancient Amity receive, Which to my second Sire I justly give. He said, and with the Trumpets chearsul sound, Proclaim'd him Victor, and with Lawrel crown'd. Nor good Eurytion envy'd him the Prize;Line 710 Tho' he transfix'd the Pidgeon in the Skies. Who cut the Line, with second Gifts was grac'd; The third was his, whose Arrow pierc'd the Mast. The Chief, before the Games were wholly done, Call'd Periphantes, Tutor to his Son;Line 715

And whisper'd thus; with speed Ascanius find, And if his Childish Troop be ready join'd; On Hors••-back let him grace his Grandsire's Day, And lead his Equals arm'd, in just Array. He said, and calling out, the Cirque he clears;Line 720 The Crowd withdrawn, an open Plain appears. And now the Noble Youths, of Form Divine, Advance before their Fathers, in a Line: The Riders grace the Steeds; the Steeds with Glory shine. Thus marching on, in Military Pride,Line 725 Shouts of Applause resound from side to fide. Their Casques, adorn'd with Lawrel Wreaths, they wear. Each brandishing aloft a Cornel Spear. Some at their Backs their guilded Quivers bore; Their Chains of burnish'd Gold hung down before.Line 730 Three graceful Troops they form'd upon the Green; Three graceful Leaders at their Head were seen; Twelve follow'd ev'ry Chief, and left a Space between. The first young Priam led; a lovely Boy, Whose Grandsire was th' unhappy King of Troy:Line 735 His Race in after times was known to Fame, New Honours adding to the Latian Name; And well the Royal Boy his Thracian Steed became. White were the Fetlocks of his Feet before; And on his Front a snowy Star he bore:Line 740 Then beauteous Atys, with Iulus bred, Of equal Age, the second Squadron led. The last in Order, but the first in place, First in the lovely Features of his Face; Rode fair Ascanius on a fiery Steed,Line 745 Queen Dido's Gift, and of the Tyrian breed. Sure Coursers for the rest the King ordains; With Golden Bitts adorn'd, and Purple Reins.

The pleas'd Spectators peals of Shouts renew; And all the Parents in the Children view:Line 750 Their Make, their Motions, and their sprightly Grace; And Hopes and Fears alternate in their Face.

Th' unfledg'd Commanders, and their Martial Train, First make the Circuit of the sandy Plain, Around their Sires: And at th' appointed Sign,Line 755 Drawn up in beauteous Order form a Line: The second Signal sounds; the Troop divides, In three distinguish'd parts, with three distinguish'd Guides. Again they close, and once again dis-join, In Troop to Troop oppos'd, and Line to Line.Line 760 They meet, they wheel, they throw their Darts afar With harmless Rage, and well dissembled War. Then in a round the mingl'd Bodies run; Flying they follow, and pursuing shun. Broken they break, and rallying, they renewLine 765 In other Forms the Military shew. At last, in order, undiscern'd they join; And march together, in a friendly Line. And, as the Cretan Labyrinth of old, With wand'ring Ways, and many a winding fold,Line 770 Involv'd the weary Feet, without redress, In a round Error, which deny'd recess; So fought the Trojan Boys in warlike Play, Turn'd, and return'd, and still a diff'rent way. Thus Dolphins, in the Deep, each other chase,Line 775 In Circles, when they swim around the wat'ry Race. This Game, these Carousels Ascanius taught; And, building Alba, to the Latins brought. Shew'd what he learn'd: The Latin Sires impart, To their succeeding Sons, the graceful Art:Line 780 From these Imperial Rome receiv'd the Game; Which Troy, the Youths the Trojan Troop, they name.

[illustration]

To y^e most Illustrious Prince William Duke of Glocester &^ct.

AE 5. l. 7••••.

Thus far the sacred Sports they celebrate: But Fortune soon resum'd her ancient hate. For while they pay the dead his Annual dues,Line 785 Those envy'd Rites Saturnian Juno views. And sends the Goddess of the various bow, To try new Methods of Revenge below: Supplies the Winds to wing her Airy way; Where in the Port secure the Navy lay.Line 790 Swiftly fair Iris down her Arch descends; And undiscern'd her fatal Voyage ends. She saw the gath'ring Crowd; and gliding thence, The desart Shore, and Fleet without defence. The Trojan Matrons on the Sands alone,Line 795 With Sighs and Tears, Anchises death bemoan. Then, turning to the Sea their weeping Eyes, Their pity to themselves, renews their Cries. Alas! said one, what Oceans yet remain For us to sail; what Labours to sustain!Line 800 All take the Word; and with a gen'ral groan, Implore the Gods for Peace; and Places of their own. The Goddess, great in Mischief, views their pains; And in a Woman's Form her heav'nly Limbs restrains. In Face and Shape, old Beroe she became,Line 805 Doriclus Wife, a venerable Dame; Once bless'd with Riches, and a Mother's Name. Thus chang'd, amidst the crying Crow'd she ran, Mix'd with the Matrons, and these words began. O wretched we, whom not the Grecian Pow'r,Line 810 Nor Flames destroy'd, in Troy's unhappy hour! O wretched we, reserv'd by Cruel Fate, Beyond the Ruins of the sinking State! Now sev'n revolving Years are wholly run, Since this improsp'rous Voyage we begun:Line 815

Since toss'd from Shores to Shores, from Lands to Lands, Inhospitable Rocks and barren Sands; Wand'ring in Exile, through the stormy Sea, We search in vain for flying Italy. Now Cast by Fortune on this kindred Land,Line 820 What shou'd our Rest, and rising Walls withstand, Or hinder here to fix our banish'd Band? O, Country lost, and Gods redeem'd in vain, If still in endless Exile we remain! Shall we no more the Trojan Walls renew,Line 825 Or Streams of some dissembl'd Simois view! Haste, joyn with me, th' unhappy Fleet consume: Cassandra bids, and I declare her doom. In sleep I saw her; she supply'd my hands, (For this I more than dreamt) with flaming Brands:Line 830 With these, said she, these wand'ring Ships destroy; These are your fatal Seats, and this your Troy. Time calls you now, the precious Hour employ. Slack not the good Presage, while Heav'n inspires Our Minds to dare, and gives the ready Fires.Line 835 See Neptune's Altars minister their Brands; The God is pleas'd; the God supplies our hands. Then, from the Pile, a flaming Firr she drew, And, toss'd in Air, amidst the Gallies threw. Wrap'd in a maze, the Matrons wildly stare:Line 840 Then Pyrgo, reverenc'd for her hoary Hair, Pyrgo, the Nurse of Priam's num'rous Race, No Beroe this, tho she belies her Face: What Terrours from her frowning Front arise; Behold a Goddess in her ardent Eyes!Line 845 What Rays around her heav'nly Face are seen, Mark her Majestick Voice, and more than mortal Meen! Beroe but now I left; whom pin'd with pain, Her Age and Anguish from these Rites detain. Line 850

She said; the Matrons, seiz'd with new Amaze,Line 850 Rowl their malignant Eyes, and on the Navy gaze. They fear, and hope, and neither part obey: They hope the fated Land, but fear the fatal Way. The Goddess, having done her Task below, Mounts up on equal Wings, and bends her painted Bow.Line 855 Struck with the sight, and feiz'd with Rage Divine; The Matrons prosecute their mad Design: They shriek aloud, they snatch, with Impious Hands, The food of Altars, Firs, and flaming Brands. Green Leaves, and Saplings, mingled in their haste;Line 860 And smoaking Torches on the Ships they cast. The Flame, unstop'd at first, more Fury gains; And Vulcan rides at large with loosen'd Reins: Triumphant to the painted Sterns he soars, And seizes in his way, the Banks, and crackling Oars.Line 865 Eumelus was the first, the News to bear, While yet they crowd the Rural Theatre. Then what they hear, is witness'd by their Eyes; A storm of Sparkles, and of Flames arise. Ascanius took th' Alarm, while yet he ledLine 870 His early Warriors on his prancing Steed. And spurring on, his Equals soon o'repass'd, Nor cou'd his frighted Friends reclaim his haste. Soon as the Royal Youth appear'd in view, He sent his Voice before him as he flew;Line 875 What Madness moves you, Matrons, to destroy The last Remainders of unhappy Troy! Not hostile Fleets, but your own hopes you burn, And on your Friends, your fatal Fury turn. Behold your own Ascanius: while he said,Line 880 He drew his glitt'ring Helmet from his Head; In which the Youths to sportful Arms he led.

By this, Aeneas and his Train appear; And now the Women, seiz'd with Shame and Fear, Dispers'd, to Woods and Caverns take their Flight;Line 885 Abhor their Actions, and avoid the Light: Their Friends acknowledge, and their Error find; And shake the Goddess from their alter'd Mind. Not so the raging Fires their Fury cease; But lurking in the Seams, with seeming Peace,Line 890 Work on their way, amid the smouldring Tow, Sure in Destruction, but in Motion slow. The silent Plague, thro' the green Timber eats, And vomits out a tardy Flame, by fits. Down to the Keels, and upward to the Sails,Line 895 The Fire descends, or mounts; but still prevails: Nor Buckets pour'd, nor strength of Human Hand, Can the victorious Element withstand. The Pious Heroe rends his Robe, and throws To Heav'n his Hands, and with his Hands his Vows.Line 900 O Jove, he cry'd, if Pray'rs can yet have place; If thou abhorr'st not all the Dardan Race; If any spark of Pity still remain; If Gods are Gods, and not invok'd in vain; Yet spare the Relicks of the Trojan Train.Line 905 Yet from the Flames our burning Vessels free: Or let thy Fury fall alone on me. At this devoted Head thy Thunder throw, And send the willing Sacrifice below. Scarce had he said, when Southern Storms arise,Line 910 From Pole to Pole, the forky Lightning flies; Loud ratling shakes the Mountains, and the Plain: Heav'n bellies downward, and descends in Rain. Whole Sheets of Water from the Clouds are sent, Which hissing thro' the Planks, the Flames prevent:Line 915

And stop the fiery Pest: Four Ships alone Burn to the wast; and for the Fleet attone. But doubtful thoughts the Hero's Heart divide; If he should still in Sicily reside, Forgetful of his Fates; or tempt the Main,Line 920 In hope the promis'd Italy to gain. Then Nautes, old, and wise, to whom alone The Will of Heav'n, by Pallas was fore-shown; Vers'd in Portents, experienc'd and inspir'd, To tell Events, and what the Fates requir'd:Line 925 Thus while he stood, to neither part inclin'd, With chearful Words reliev'd his lab'ring Mind. O Goddess-born, resign'd in ev'ry state, With Patience bear, with Prudence push your Fate. By suff'ring well, our Fortune we subdue;Line 930 Fly when she frowns, and when she calls pursue. Your Friend Acestes is of Trojan Kind, To him disclose the Secrets of your Mind: Trust in his Hands your old and useless Train, Too num'rous for the Ships which yet remain:Line 935 The feeble, old, indulgent of their Ease, The Dames who dread the Dangers of the Seas, With all the dastard Crew, who dare not stand The shock of Battel with your Foes by Land; Here you may build a common Town for all;Line 940 And from Acestes name, Acesta call. The Reasons, with his Friend's Experience join'd, Encourag'd much, but more disturb'd his Mind. 'Twas dead of Night; when to his slumb'ring Eyes, His Father's Shade descended from the Skies;Line 945 And thus he spoke: O more than vital Breath Lov'd while I liv'd, and dear ev'n after Death; O Son, in various Toils and Troubles tost, The King of Heav'n employs my careful Ghost Line 950

On his Commands; the God who sav'd from FireLine 950 Your flaming Fleet, and heard your just desire: The Wholsom Counsel of your Friend receive; And here, the Coward Train, and Women leave: The chosen Youth, and those who nobly dare, Transport; to tempt the Dangers of the War.Line 955 The stern Italians will their Courage try; Rough are their Manners, and their Minds are high. But first to Pluto's Palace you shall go, And seek my Shade among the blest below. For not with impious Ghosts my Soul remains,Line 960 Nor suffers, with the Damn'd, perpetual Pains; But breaths the living Air of soft Elysian Plains. The chast Sybilla shall your steps convey; And Blood of offer'd Victims free the way. There shall you know what Realms the Gods assign;Line 965 And learn the Fates and Fortunes of your Line. But now, farewel; I vanish with the Night; And feel the blast of Heav'ns approaching Light: He said, and mix'd with Shades, and took his airy flight. Whether so fast, the filial Duty cry'd,Line 970 And why, ah why, the wish'd Embrace deny'd! He said, and rose: as holy Zeal inspires He rakes hot Embers, and renews the Fires. His Country Gods and Vesta, then adores With Cakes and Incense; and their Aid implores.Line 975 Next, for his Friends, and Royal Host he sent, Reveal'd his Vision and the Gods intent, With his own Purpose: All, without delay, The Will of Jove, and his Desires obey. They list with Women each degenerate Name,Line 980 Who dares not hazard Life, for future Fame. These they cashier; the brave remaining few, Oars, Banks, and Cables half consum'd renew.

The Prince designs a City with the Plough; The Lots their sev'ral Tenements allow.Line 985 This part is nam'd from Ilium, that from Troy; And the new King ascends the Throme with Joy. A chosen Senate from the People draws; Appoints the Judges, and ordains the Laws. Then on the top of Eryx, they beginLine 990 To raise a Temple to the Paphian Queen: Anchises, last, is honour'd as a God, A Priest is added, annual Gifts bestow'd; And Groves are planted round his blest Abode, Nine days they pass in Feasts, their Temples crown'd;Line 995 And fumes of Incense in the Fanes abound. Then, from the South arose a gēntle Breeze, That curl'd the smoothness of the glassy Seas: The rising Winds, a ruffling Gale afford, And call the merry Marriners aboard.Line 1000

Now loud Laments along the Shores resound, Of parting Friends in close Embraces bound. The trembling Women, the degenerate Train, Who shun'd the frightful dangers of the Main; Ev'n those desire to fail, and take their shareLine 1005 Of the rough Passage, and the promis'd War. Whom Good Aeneas chears; and recommends To their new Master's Care, his fearful Friends. On Eryx Altars three sat Calves he lays; A Lamb new fall'n to the stormy Seas;Line 1010 Then flips his Haulsers, and his Anchors weighs. High on the Deck, the Godlike Heroe stands; With Olive crown'd; a Charger in his Hands; Then cast the reeking Entrails in the brine, And pour'd the Sacrifice of Purple Wine.Line 1015 Fresh Gales arise, with equal Strokes they vye, And brush the buxom Seas, and o're the Billows fly.

Mean time the Mother-Goddess, full of Fears, To Neptune thus address'd, with tender Tears. The Pride of Jove's Imperious Queen, the Rage,Line 1020 The malice which no Suff'rings can asswage, Compel me to these Pray'rs: Since neither Fate, Nor Time, nor Pity, can remove her hate. Ev'n Jove is thwarted by his haughty Wife; Still vanquish'd, yet she still renews the Strife.Line 1025 As if 'twere little to consume the Town Which aw'd the World; and wore th' Imperial Crown: She prosecutes the Ghost of Troy with Pains; And gnaws, ev'n to the Bones, the last Remains. Let her the Causes of her Hatred tell;Line 1030 But you can witness its Effects too well. You saw the Storm she rais'd on Lybian Floods, That mix'd the mounting Billows with the Clouds. When, bribing Eolus, she shook the Main; And mov'd Rebellion in your wat'ry Reign.Line 1035 With Fury she possess'd the Dardan Dames; To burn their Fleet with execrable Flames. And forc'd Aeneas, when his Ships were lost, To leave his Foll'wers on a Foreign Coast. For what remains, your Godhead I implore;Line 1040 And trust my Son to your protecting Pow'r. If neither Jove's, nor Fate's decree withstand, Secure his Passage to the Latian Land.

Then thus the mighty Ruler of the Main, What may not Venus hope, from Neptune's Reign?Line 1045 My Kingdom claims your Birth: my late Defence Of your indanger'd Fleet, may claim your Confidence. Nor less by Land than Sea, my Deeds declare, How much your lov'd Aeneas is my Care. Thee Xanthus, and thee Simois I attest:Line 1050 Your Trojan Troops, when proud Achilles press'd,

[illustration]

To Edmond Waller of Beacons Field in the County of Bucks Esq

AE 5. l. 1075

And drove before him headlong on the Plain And dash'd against the Walls the trembling T•••••••• When Floods were fill'd with bodies of the slain. When Crimson Xanthus, doubtful of his way,Line 1055 Stood up on ridges to behold the Sea; New heaps came tumbling in, and choak'd his way: When your Aeneas fought, but fought with odds Of Force unequal, and unequal Gods; I spread a Cloud before the Victor's sight,Line 1060 Sustain'd the vanquish'd, and secur'd his flight. Ev'n then secur'd him, when I sought with joy The vow'd destruction of ungrateful Troy. My Will's the same: Fair Goddess fear no more, Your Fleet shall safely gain the Latian Shore:Line 1065 Their lives are giv'n; one destin'd Head alone Shall perish, and for Multitudes attone. Thus having arm'd with Hopes her anxious Mind, His finny Team Saturnian Neptune join'd. Then, adds the foamy Bridle to their Jaws;Line 1070 And to the loosen'd Reins permits the Laws. High on the Waves his Azure Car he guides, Its Axles thunder, and the Sea subsides; And the smooth Ocean rowls her silent Tides. The Tempests fly before their Father's face,Line 1075 Trains of inferiour Gods his Triumph grace; And Monster Whales before their Master play, And Quires of Tritons crowd the wat'ry way. The Martial'd Pow'rs, in equal Troops divide, To right and left: the Gods his better sideLine 1080 Inclose, and on the worse the Nymphs and Nereids ride.

Now smiling Hope, with sweet Vicissitude, Within the Hero's Mind, his Joys renew'd. He calls to raise the Masts, the Sheats display; The Chearful Crew with diligence obey;Line 1085 They scud before the Wind, and sail in open Sea.

A Head of all the Master Pilot steers, And as he leads, the following Navy veers. The Steeds of Night had travell'd half the Sky, The drowzy Rowers on their Benches lye;Line 1090 When the soft God of Sleep, with easie flight, Descends, and draws behind a trail of Light. Thou Palinurus art his destin'd Prey; To thee alone he takes his fatal way. Dire Dreams to thee, and Iron Sleep he bears;Line 1095 And lighting on thy Prow, the Form of Phorbas wears. Then thus the Traytor God began his Tale: The Winds, my Friend, inspire a pleasing gale; The Ships, without thy Care, securely sail. Now steal an hour of sweet Repose; and ILine 1100 Will take the Rudder, and thy room supply. To whom the yauning Pilot, half asleep; Me dost thou bid to trust the treach'rous Deep! The Harlot-smiles of her dissembling Face, And to her Faith commit the Trojan Race?Line 1105 Shall I believe the Syren South again, And, oft betray'd, not know the Monster Main? He said, his fasten'd hands the Rudder keep, And fix'd on Heav'n, his Eyes repel invading Sleep. The God was wroth, and at his Temples threwLine 1110 A Branch in Lethe dip'd, and drunk with Stygian Dew: The Pilot, vanquish'd by the Pow'r Divine, Soon clos'd his swimming Eyes, and lay supine. Scarce were his Limbs extended at their length, The God, insulting with superiour Strength,Line 1115 Fell heavy on him, plung'd him in the Sea, And, with the Stern, the Rudder tore away. Headlong he fell, and strugling in the Main, Cry'd out for helping hands, but cry'd in vain: Line 1120

The Victor Daemon mounts obscure in Air;Line 1120 While the Ship sails without the Pilot's care. On Neptune's Faith the floating Fleet relies; But what the Man forsook, the God supplies; And o're the dang'rous Deep secure the Navy flies. Glides by the Syren's Cliffs, a shelfy Coast,Line 1125 Long infamous for Ships, and Sailors lost; And white with Bones: Th' impetuous Ocean roars; And Rocks rebellow from the sounding Shores. The watchful Heroe felt the knocks; and found The tossing Vessel sail'd on shoaly Ground.Line 1130 Sure of his Pilot's loss, he takes himself The Helm, and steers aloof, and shuns the Shelf. Inly he griev'd; and groaning from his Breast, Deplor'd his Death; and thus his Pain express'd: For Faith repos'd on Seas, and on the flatt'ring Sky,Line 1135 Thy naked Corps is doom'd, on Shores unknown to lye.

The Sixth Book of the Aeneis.

The Argument.

The Sibyl foretels Aeneas the Adventures he should meet with in Ita∣ly. She attends him to Hell; describing to him the various Scenes of that Place, and conducting him to his Father Anchises. Who instructs him in those sublime Mysteries of the Soul of the World, and the Transmigration: And shews him that glorious Race of Heroes, which was to descend from him, and his Posterity.

HE said, and wept: Then spread his Sails before The Winds, and reach'd at length the Cuman Shore: Their Anchors drop'd, his Crew the Vessels moor. They turn their Heads to Sea; their Sterns to Land; And greet with greedy Joy th' Italian Strand.Line 5 Some strike from clashing Flints their fiery Seed; Some gather Sticks, the kindled Flames to feed: Or search for hollow Trees, and fell the Woods, Or trace thro Valleys the discover'd Floods. Thus, while their sev'ral Charges they fulfil,Line 10 The Pious Prince ascends the sacred Hill Where Phoebus is ador'd; and seeks the Shade, Which hides from sight, his venerable Maid. Deep in a Cave the Sibyl makes abode; Thence full of Fate returns, and of the God.Line 15 Thro Trivia's Grove they walk; and now behold, And enter now, the Temple roof'd with Gold. When Dedalus, to shun the Cretan Shore, His heavy Limbs on jointed Pinions bore, (The first who sail'd in Air,) 'tis sung by Fame,Line 20 To the Cumaean Coast at length he came; And, here alighting, built this costly Frame.

[illustration]

To y^e Right Hon^ble Basil Earle of Denbigh Vis-count Fielding Baron Newenham Padox & S^t Lis

AE. 6. l. ••

Inscrib'd to Phoebus, here he hung on high The steerage of his Wings, that cut the Sky: Then o're the lofty Gate his Art emboss'dLine 25 Androgeos Death, and Off'rings to his Ghost. Sev'n Youths from Athens yearly sent, to meet The Fate appointed by revengeful Creet. And next to these the dreadful Urn was plac'd, In which the destin'd Name by Lots were cast:Line 30 The mournful Parents stand around in Tears; And rising Creet against their Shore appears. There too, in living Sculpture, might be seen The mad Affection of the Cretan Queen: Then how she cheats her bellowing Lover's Eye:Line 35 The rushing leap, the doubtful Progeny, The lower part a Beast, a Man above, The Monument of their polluted Love. Nor far from thence he grav'd the wond'rous Maze; A thousand Doors, a thousand winding Ways;Line 40 Here dwells the Monster, hid from Human View, Not to be found, but by the faithful Clue: 'Till the kind Artist, mov'd with Pious Grief, Lent to the loving Maid this last Relief. And all those erring Paths describ'd so well,Line 45 That Theseus conquer'd, and the Monster fell. Here hapless Icarus had found his part; Had not the Father's Grief restrain'd his Art. He twice essay'd to cast his Son in Gold; Twice from his Hands he drop'd the forming Mould.Line 50

All this with wond'ring Eyes Aeneas view'd: Each varying Object his Delight renew'd. Prepar'd to read the rest, Achates came, And by his side the mad divining Dame; The Priestess of the God, Deiphobe her Name.Line 55

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Time suffers not, she said, to feed your Eyes With empty Pleasures: haste the Sacrifice. Sev'n Bullocks yet unyok'd, for Phoebus chuse, And for Diana sev'n unspotted Ewes. This said, the Servants urge the Sacred Rites;Line 60 While to the Temple she the Prince invites. A spacious Cave, within its farmost part, Was hew'd and fashion'd by laborious Art. Thro' the Hills hollow sides: Before the place, A hundred Doors a hundred Entries grace:Line 65 As many Voices issue; and the sound Of Sibyl's Words as many times rebound. Now to the Mouth they come: Aloud she cries, This is the time, enquire your Destinies. He comes, behold the God! Thus while she said,Line 70 (And shiv'ring at the sacred Entry staid) Her Colour chang'd, her Face was not the same, And hollow Groans from her deep Spirit came. Her Hair stood up; convulsive Rage possess'd Her trembling Limbs, and heav'd her lab'ring Breast.Line 75 Greater than Human Kind she seem'd to look: And with an Accent, more than Mortal, spoke. Her staring Eyes with sparling Fury rowl; When all the God came rushing on her Soul. Swiftly she turn'd, and foaming as she spoke,Line 80 Why this Delay, she cry'd; the Pow'rs invoke. Thy Pray'rs alone can open this abode, Else vain are my Demands, and dumb the God. She said no more: The trembling Trojans hear; O're-spread with a damp Sweat, and holy Fear.Line 85 The Prince himself, with awful Dread possess'd, His Vows to great Apollo thus address'd. Indulgent God, propitious Pow'r to Troy, Swift to relieve, unwilling to destroy; Line 90

Directed by whose Hand, the Dardan DartLine 90 Pierc'd the proud Grecian's only Mortal part: Thus far, by Fates Decrees, and thy Commands, Through ambient Seas, and thro' devouring Sands, Our exil'd Crew has sought th' Ausonian Ground: And now, at length, the flying Coast is found.Line 95 Thus far the Fate of Troy, from place to place, With Fury has pursu'd her wand'ring Race: Here cease ye Pow'rs, and let your Vengeance end, Troy is no more, and can no more offend. And thou, O sacred Maid, inspir'd to seeLine 100 Th' Event of things in dark Futurity; Give me, what Heav'n has promis'd to my Fate, To conquer and command the Latian State: To fix my wand'ring Gods; and find a place For the long Exiles of the Trojan Race.Line 105 Then shall my grateful Hands a Temple rear To the twin Gods, with Vows and solemn Pray'r; And Annual Rites, and Festivals, and Games, Shall be perform'd to their auspicious Names. Nor shalt thou want thy Honours in my Land,Line 110 For there thy faithful Oracles shall stand, Preserv'd in Shrines: and ev'ry Sacred Lay, Which, by thy Mouth, Apollo shall convey. All shall be treasur'd, by a chosen Train Of holy Priests, and ever shall remain.Line 115 But, oh! commit not thy prophetick Mind To flitting Leaves, the sport of ev'ry Wind: Lest they disperse in Air our empty Fate: Write not, but, what the Pow'rs ordain, relate.

Strugling in vain, impatient of her Load,Line 120 And lab'ring underneath the pond'rous God, The more she strove to shake him from her Breast, With more, and far superior Force he press'd:

Commands his Entrance, and without Controul, Usurps her Organs, and inspires her Soul.Line 125 Now, with a furious Blast, the hundred Doors Ope of themselves; a rushing Wirlwind roars Within the Cave; and Sibyl's Voice restores.

Escap'd the Dangers of the wat'ry Reign, Yet more, and greater Ills, by Land remain.Line 130 The Coast so long desir'd, (nor doubt th' Event) Thy Troops shall reach, but having reach'd, repent. Wars, horrid Wars I view; a field of Blood; And Tyber rolling with a Purple Flood. Simois nor Xanthus shall be wanting there;Line 135 A new Achilles shall in Arms appear: And he, too, Goddess-born: fierce Juno's Hate, Added to hostile Force, shall urge thy Fate. To what strange Nations shalt not thou resort, Driv'n to sollicite Aid at ev'ry Court!Line 140 The Cause the same which Ilium once oppress'd, A foreign Mistress, and a foreign Guest. But thou, secure of Soul, unbent with Woes, The more thy Fortune frowns, the more oppose. The dawnings of thy Safety, shall be shown,Line 145 From whence thou least shalt hope, a Grecian Town.

Thus, from the dark Recess, the Sibyl spoke, And the resisting Air the Thunder broke; The Cave rebellow'd; and the Temple shook. Th' ambiguous God, who rul'd her lab'ring Breast,Line 150 In these mysterious Words his Mind exprest: Some Truths reveal'd, in Terms involv'd the rest. At length her Fury fell; her foaming ceas'd, And, ebbing in her Soul, the God decreas'd. Then thus the Chief: no Terror to my view,Line 155 No frightful Face of Danger can be new.

[illustration]

To S^r Fleetwood Sheppard Knight, Gent: Vsher of y^e Black Rod

AE. •• l. 150.

Inur'd to suffer, and resolv'd to dare, The Fates, without my Pow'r, shall be without my Care. This let me crave, since near your Grove the Road To Hell lies open, and the dark Abode,Line 160 Which Acheron surrounds, th' innavigable Flood: Conduct me thro' the Regions void of Light, And lead me longing to my Father's sight. For him, a thousand Dangers I have sought; And, rushing where the thickest Grecians fought,Line 165 Safe on my Back the sacred Burthen brought. He, for my sake, the raging Ocean try'd, And Wrath of Heav'n; my still auspicious Guide, And bore beyond the strength decrepid Age supply'd. Oft since he breath'd his last, in dead of Night,Line 170 His reverend Image stood before my sight; Enjoin'd to seek below, his holy Shade; Conducted there, by your unerring aid. But you, if pious Minds by Pray'rs are won, Oblige the Father, and protect the Son.Line 175 Yours is the Pow'r; nor Proserpine in vain Has made you Priestess of her nightly Reign. If Orpheus, arm'd with his enchanting Lyre, The ruthless King with Pity could inspire; And from the Shades below redeem his Wife:Line 180 If Pollux, off'ring his alternate Life, Cou'd free his Brother; and can daily go By turns aloft, by turns descend below: Why name I Theseus, or his greater Friend, Who trod the downward Path, and upward cou'd ascend!Line 185 Not less than theirs, from Jove my Lineage came: My Mother greater, my Descent the same. So pray'd the Trojan Prince; and while he pray'd His Hand upon the holy Altar laid. Line 190

Then thus reply'd the Prophetess Divine:Line 190 O Goddess born! of Great Anchises Line; The Gates of Hell are open Night and day; Smooth the Descent, and easie is the Way: But, to return, and view the chearful Skies; In this the Task, and mighty Labour lies.Line 195 To few great Jupiter imparts this Grace: And those of shining Worth, and Heav'nly Race. Betwixt those Regions, and our upper Light, Deep Forrests, and impenetrable Night Possess the middle space: Th' Infernal BoundsLine 200 Cocytus, with his sable Waves, surrounds. But if so dire a Love your Soul invades; As twice below to view the trembling Shades; If you so hard a Toil will undertake, As twice to pass th' innavigable Lake;Line 205 Receive my Counsel. In the Neighb'ring Grove There stands a Tree; the Queen of Stygian Jove Claims it her own; thick Woods, and gloomy Night, Conceal the happy Plant from Humane sight. One Bough it bears; but, wond'rous to behold;Line 210 The ductile Rind, and Leaves, of Radiant Gold: This, from the vulgar Branches must be torn, And to fair Proserpine, the Present born: E're leave be giv'n to tempt the neather Skies: The first thus rent, a second will arise;Line 215 And the same Metal the same room supplies. Look round the Wood, with lifted Eyes, to see The lurking Gold upon the fatal Tree: Then rend it off, as holy Rites command: The willing Metal will obey thy hand,Line 220 Following with ease, if, favour'd by thy Fate, Thou art foredoom'd to view the Stygian State:

If not, no labour can the Tree constrain: And strength of stubborn Arms, and Steel are vain. Besides, you know not, while you here attendLine 225 Th' unworthy Fate of your unhappy Friend: Breathless he lies: And his unbury'd Ghost, Depriv'd of Fun'ral Rites, pollutes your Host. Pay first his Pious Dues: And for the dead, Two sable Sheep around his Herse be led.Line 230 Then, living Turfs upon his Body lay; This done, securely take the destin'd Way, To find the Regions destitute of Day. She said: and held her Peace. Aeneas went Sad from the Cave, and full of Discontent;Line 235 Unknowing whom the sacred Sibyl meant. Achates, the Companion of his Breast, Goes grieving by his side; with equal Cares oppress'd. Walking, they talk'd, and fruitlesly divin'd What Friend, the Priestess by those Words design'd.Line 240 But soon they found an Object to deplore; Misenus lay extended on the Shore. Son to the God of Winds; none so renown'd, The Warrior Trumpet in the Field to sound: With breathing Brass to kindle fierce Alarms;Line 245 And rouze to dare their Fate, in honourable Arms. He serv'd great Hector; and was ever near; Not with his Trumpet only, but his Spear. But, by Pelides Arms, when Hector fell, He chose Aeneas, and he chose as well.Line 250 Swoln with Applause, and aiming still at more, He now provokes the Sea Gods from the Shore; With Envy Triton heard the Martial sound, And the bold Champion, for his Challenge, drown'd. Then cast his mangled Carcass on the Strand▪Line 255 The gazing Crowd around the Body stand.

All weep, but most Aeneas mourns his Fate; And hastens to perform the Funeral state. In Altar-wise, a stately Pile they rear; The Basis broad below, and top advanc'd in Air.Line 260 An ancient Wood, fit for the Work design'd, (The shady Covert of the Salvage Kind) The Trojans found: The sounding Axe is ply'd: Firs, Pines, and Pitch-Trees, and the tow'ring Pride Of Forest Ashes, feel the fatal Stroke:Line 265 And piercing Wedges cleave the stubborn Oak. Huge Trunks of Trees, fell'd from the steepy Crown Of the bare Mountains, rowl with Ruin down. Arm'd like the rest the Trojan Prince appears: And, by his pious Labour, urges theirs.Line 270 Thus while he wrought, revolving in his Mind, The ways to compass what his Wish design'd, He cast his Eyes upon the gloomy Grove; And then with Vows implor'd the Queen of Love. O may thy Pow'r, propitious still to me,Line 275 Conduct my steps to find the fatal Tree, In this deep Forest; since the Sibyl's Breath Foretold, alas! too true, Misenus Death. Scarce had he said, when full before his sight Two Doves, descending from their Airy Flight,Line 280 Secure upon the grassy Plain alight. He knew his Mother's Birds: and thus he pray'd: Be you my Guides, with your auspicious Aid: And lead my Footsteps, 'till the Branch be found, Whose glittering Shadow guilds the sacred Ground:Line 285 And thou, great Parent! with Coelestial Care, In this Distress, be present to my Pray'r. Thus having said, he stop'd: With watchful sight, Observing still the motions of their Flight.

[illustration]

To S^r: Tho: Dyke of Horeham in y^e County of Sussex Bar^t:

AE. 6. l. 280

[illustration]

To M^rs: Anne Baynard Daughter of D^r. Edn^d: Baynard of the Family of Leckham in y^e County of Wilts

AE 6. l 31••

What course they took, what happy Signs they shew.Line 290 They fed, and flutt'ring by degrees, withdrew Still farther from the Place; but still in view. Hopping, and flying, thus they led him on To the slow Lake; whose baleful Stench to shun, They wing'd their Flight aloft; then, stooping low,Line 295 Perch'd on the double Tree, that bears the golden Bough. Thro' the green Leafs the glitt'ring Shadows glow; As on the sacred Oak, the wintry Misleto: Where the proud Mother views her precious Brood; And happier Branches, which she never sow'd.Line 300 Such was the glitt'ring; such the ruddy Rind, And dancing Leaves, that wanton'd in the Wind. He seiz'd the shining Bough with griping hold; And rent away, with ease, the ling'ring Gold. Then, to the Sibyl's Palace bore the Prize.Line 305 Mean time, the Trojan Troops, with weeping Eyes, To dead Misenus pay his Obsequies. First, from the Ground, a lofty Pile they rear, Of Pitch-trees, Oaks, and Pines, and unctuous Firr: The Fabrick's Front with Cypress Twigs they strew;Line 310 And stick the sides with Boughs of baleful Yeugh. The topmost part, his glitt'ring Arms adorn; Warm Waters, then, in brazen Caldrons born, Are pour'd to wash his Body, Joint by Joint: And fragrant Oils the stiffen'd Limbs anoint.Line 315 With Groans and Cries Misenus they deplore: Then on a Bier, with Purple cover'd o're, The breathless Body, thus bewail'd, they lay: And fire the Pile, their Faces turn'd away: (Such reverend Rites their Fathers us'd to pay.)Line 320 Pure Oyl, and Incense, on the Fire they throw: And Fat of Victims, which his Friends bestow.

These Gifts, the greedy Flames to Dust devour; Then, on the living Coals, red Wine they pour: And last, the Relicks by themselves dispose;Line 325 Which in a brazen Urn the Priests inclose. Old Chorineus compass'd thrice the Crew; And dip'd an Olive Branch in holy Dew; Which thrice he sprinkl'd round; and thrice aloud Invok'd the dead, and then dismiss'd the Crowd.Line 330

But good Aeneas order'd on the Shore A stately Tomb; whose top a Trumpet bore: A Souldier's Fauchion, and a Sea-man's Oar. Thus was his Friend interr'd: And deathless Fame Still to the lofty Cape consigns his Name.Line 335

These Rites perform'd, the Prince, without delay, Hastes to the neather World, his destin'd Way. Deep was the Cave; and downward as it went From the wide Mouth, a rocky rough Descent; And here th' access a gloomy Grove defends;Line 340 And there th' unnavigable Lake extends. O're whose unhappy Waters, void of Light, No Bird presumes to steer his Airy Flight; Such deadly Stenches from the depth arise, And steaming Sulphur, that infects the Skies.Line 345 From hence the Grecian Bards their Legends make, And give the name Avernus to the Lake. Four sable Bullocks, in the Yoke untaught, For Sacrifice the pious Heroe brought. The Priestess pours the Wine betwixt their Horns:Line 350 Then cuts the curling Hair; that first Oblation burns. Invoking Hecate hither to repair; (A pow'rful Name in Hell, and upper Air.) The sacred Priests with ready Knives bereave The Beasts of Life; and in full Bowls receiveLine 355

The streaming Blood: A Lamb to Hell and Night, (The sable Wool without a streak of white) Aeneas offers: And, by Fates decree, A barren Heifar, Proserpine to thee. With Holocausts he Pluto's Altar fills:Line 360 Sev'n brawny Bulls with his own Hand he kills: Then on the broiling Entrails Oyl he pours; Which, ointed thus, the raging Flame devours. Late, the Nocturnal Sacrifice begun; Nor ended, 'till the next returning Sun.Line 365 Then Earth began to bellow, Trees to dance; And howling Dogs in glimm'ring Light advance; E're Hecate came: Far hence be Souls prophane, The Sibyl cry'd, and from the Grove abstain. Now, Trojan, take the way thy Fates afford:Line 370 Assume thy Courage, and unsheath thy Sword. She said, and pass'd along the gloomy Space: The Prince pursu'd her Steps with equal pace.

Ye Realms, yet unreveal'd to human sight, Ye Gods, who rule the Regions of the Night,Line 375 Ye gliding Ghosts, permit me to relate The mystick Wonders of your silent State.

Obscure they went thro dreery Shades, that led Along the waste Dominions of the dead: Thus wander Travellers in Woods by Night,Line 380 By the Moon's doubtful, and malignant Light: When Jove in dusky Clouds involves the Skies; And the faint Crescent shoots by fits before their Eyes.

Just in the Gate, and in the Jaws of Hell, Revengeful Cares, and sullen Sorrows dwell;Line 385 And pale Diseases, and repining Age; Want, Fear, and Famine's unresisted rage. Here Toils, and Death, and Death's half-brother, Sleep, Forms terrible to view, their Centry keep: Line 390

With anxious Pleasures of a guilty Mind,Line 390 Deep Frauds before, and open Force behind: The Furies Iron Beds, and Strife that shakes Her hissing Tresses, and unfolds her Snakes. Full in the midst of this infernal Road, An Elm displays her dusky Arms abroad;Line 395 The God of Sleep there hides his heavy Head: And empty Dreams on ev'ry Leaf are spread. Of various Forms unnumber'd Specters more; Centaurs, and double Shapes, besiege the Door: Before the Passage horrid Hydra stands,Line 400 And Briareus with all his hundred Hands: Gorgons, Geryon with his triple Frame; And vain Chimaera vomits empty Flame. The Chief unsheath'd his shining Steel, prepar'd, Tho seiz'd with sudden Fear, to force the Guard.Line 405 Off'ring his brandish'd Weapon at their Face; Had not the Sibyl stop'd his eager Pace, And told him what those empty Fantomes were; Forms without Bodies, and impassive Air. Hence to deep Acheron they take their way;Line 410 Whose troubled Eddies, thick with Ooze and Clay, Are whirl'd aloft, and in Cocytus lost: There Charon stands, who rules the dreary Coast: A sordid God; down from his hoary Chin A length of Beard descends; uncomb'd, unclean:Line 415 His Eyes, like hollow Furnaces on Fire: A Girdle, foul with grease, binds his obscene Attire. He spreads his Canvas, with his Pole he steers; The Freights of flitting Ghosts in his thin Bottom beats. He look'd in Years; yet in his Years were seenLine 420 A youthful Vigour, and Autumnal green. An Airy Crowd came rushing where he stood; Which fill'd the Margin of the fatal Flood.

[illustration]

To John Lenknor Esq^r: of West Deane in the County of Sussex

AE. 6. l: 390

Husbands and Wives, Boys and unmarry'd Maids; And mighty Heroes more Majestick Shades.Line 425 And Youths, intomb'd before their Fathers Eyes, With hollow Groans, and Shrieks, and feeble Cries: Thick as the Leaves in Autumn strow the Woods: Or Fowls, by Winter forc'd, forsake the Floods, And wing their hasty flight to happier Lands:Line 430 Such, and so thick, the shiv'ring Army stands: And press for passage with extended hands.

Now these, now those, the surly Boatman bore: The rest he drove to distance from the Shore. The Heroe, who beheld with wond'ring Eyes,Line 435 The Tumult mix'd with Shrieks, Laments, and Cries; Ask'd of his Guide, what the rude Concourse meant? Why to the Shore the thronging People bent? What Forms of Law, among the Ghosts were us'd? Why some were ferry'd o're, and some refus'd?Line 440

Son of Anchises, Offspring of the Gods, The Sibyl said; you see the Stygian Floods, The Sacred Stream, which Heav'n's Imperial State Attests in Oaths, and fears to violate. The Ghosts rejected, are th' unhappy CrewLine 445 Depriv'd of Sepulchers▪ and Fun'ral due. The Boatman Charon; those, the bury'd host, He Ferries over to the Farther Coast. Nor dares his Transport Vessel cross the Waves, With such whose Bones are not compos'd in Graves.Line 450 A hundred years they wander on the Shore, At length, their Pennance done, are wafted o're. The Trojan Chief his forward pace repress'd; Revolving anxious Thoughts within his Breast. He saw his Friends, who whelm'd beneath the Waves,Line 455 Their Fun'ral Honours claim'd, and ask'd their quiet Graves.

The lost Leucaspis in the Crowd he knew; And the brave Leader of the Lycian Crew: Whom, on the Tyrrhene Seas, the Tempests met; The Sailors master'd, and the Ship o'reset.Line 460 Amidst the Spirits Palinurus press'd; Yet fresh from life; a new admitted Guest. Who, while he steering view'd the Stars, and bore His Course from Affrick, to the Latian Shore, Fell headlong down. The Trojan fix'd his view;Line 465 And scarcely through the gloom the sullen Shadow knew. Then thus the Prince. What envious Pow'r, O Friend, Brought your lov'd life to this disastrous end? For Phoebus, ever true in all he said, Has, in your fate alone, my Faith betray'd?Line 470 The God foretold you shou'd not die, before You reach'd, secure from Seas, th' Italian Shore? Is this th' unerring Pow'r? The Ghost reply'd, Nor Phoebus flatter'd, nor his Answers ly'd; Nor envious Gods have sent me to the Deep:Line 475 But while the Stars, and course of Heav'n I keep, My weary'd Eyes were seiz'd with fatal sleep. I fell; and with my weight, the Helm constrain'd, Was drawn along, which yet my gripe retain'd. Now by the Winds, and raging Waves, I swear,Line 480 Your Safety, more than mine, was then my Care: Lest, of the Guide bereft, the Rudder lost, Your Ship shou'd run against the the rocky Coast. Three blust'ring Nights, born by the Southern blast, I floated; and discover'd Land at last:Line 485 High on a Mounting Wave, my head I bore: Forcing my Strength, and gath'ring to the Shore: Panting, but but past the danger, now I seiz'd The Craggy Cliffs, and my tyr'd Members eas'd: Line 485

While, cumber'd with my dropping Cloaths, I lay,Line 485 The cruel Nation, covetous of Prey, Stain'd with my Blood th' unhospitable Coast: And now, by Winds and Waves, my lifeless Limbs are tost. Which O avert, by yon Etherial Light Which I have lost, for this eternal Night:Line 490 Or if by dearer tyes you may be won, By your dead Sire, and by your living Son, Redeem from this Reproach, my wand'ring Ghost; Or with your Navy seek the Velin Coast: And in a peaceful Grave my Corps compose:Line 500 Or, if a nearer way your Mother shows, Without whose Aid, you durst not undertake This frightful Passage o're the Stygian Lake; Lend to this Wretch your Hand, and waft him o're To the sweet Banks of yon forbidden Shore.Line 505 Scarce had he said, the Prophetess began; What Hopes delude thee, miserable Man? Think'st thou thus unintomb'd to cross the Floods, To view the Furies, and Infernal Gods; And visit, without leave, the dark abodes?Line 510 Attend the term of long revolving Years: Fate, and the dooming Gods, are deaf to Tears. This Comfort of thy dire Misfortune take; The Wrath of Heav'n, inflicted for thy sake, With Vengeance shall pursue th' inhumane Coast.Line 515 Till they propitiate thy offended Ghost, And raise a Tomb, with Vows, and solemn Pray'r; And Palinurus name the Place shall bear. This calm'd his Cares: sooth'd with his future Fame; And pleas'd to hear his propagated Name.Line 520

Now nearer to the Stygian Lake they draw: Whom from the Shore, the surly Boatman saw:

Observ'd their Passage thro' the shady Wood; And mark'd their near Approaches to the Flood: Then thus he call'd aloud, inflam'd with Wrath;Line 525 Mortal, what e're, who this forbidden Path In Arms presum'st to tread, I charge thee stand, And tell thy Name, and Buis'ness in the Land. Know this, the Realm of Night; the Stygian Shore: My Boat conveys no living Bodies o're:Line 530 Nor was I pleas'd great Theseus once to bear; Who forc'd a Passage with his pointed Spear; Nor strong Alcides, Men of mighty Fame; And from th' immortal Gods their Lineage came. In Fetters one the barking Porter ty'd,Line 535 And took him trembling from his Sov'raign's side: Two sought by Force to seize his beauteous Bride. To whom the Sibyl thus, compose thy Mind: Nor Frauds are here contriv'd, nor Force design'd. Still may the Dog the wand'ring Troops constrainLine 540 Of Airy Ghosts; and vex the guilty Train; And with her grisly Lord his lovely Queen remain. The Trojan Chief, whose Lineage is from Jove, Much fam'd for Arms, and more for filial Love, Is sent to seek his Sire, in your Elisian Grove.Line 545 If neither Piety, nor Heav'n's Command, Can gain his Passage to the Stygian Strand, This fatal Present shall prevail, at least; Then shew'd the shining Bough, conceal'd within her Vest. No more was needful: for the gloomy GodLine 550 Stood mute with Awe, to see the Golden Rod: Admir'd the destin'd Off'ring to his Queen; (A venerable Gift so rarely seen) His Fury thus appeas'd, he puts to Land: The Ghosts forsake their Seats, at his Command:Line 555

He clears the Deck, receives the mighty Freight, The leaky Vessel groans beneath the weight. Slowly he sails; and scarcely stems the Tides: The pressing Water pours within her sides. His Passengers at length are wafted o're;Line 560 Expos'd in muddy Weeds, upon the miry Shore. No sooner landed, in his Den they found The triple Porter of the Stygian Sound: Grim Cerberus; who soon began to rear His crested Snakes, and arm'd his bristling Hair.Line 565 The prudent Sibyl had before prepar'd A Sop, in Honey steep'd, to charm the Guard. Which, mix'd with pow'rful Drugs, she cast before His greedy grinning Jaws, just op'd to roar: With three enormous Mouths he gapes; and streight,Line 570 With Hunger prest, devours the pleasing Bait. Long draughts of Sleep his monstrous Limbs enslave; He reels, and falling, fills the spacious Cave. The Keeper charm'd, the Chief without Delay Pass'd on, and took th' irremeable way.Line 575 Before the Gates, the Cries of Babes new born, Whom Fate had from their tender Mothers torn, Assault his Ears: Then those, whom Form of Laws Condemn'd to die, when Traitors judg'd their Cause. Nor want they Lots, nor Judges to reviewLine 580 The wrongful Sentence, and award a new. Minos, the strict Inquisitor, appears; And Lives and Crimes, with his Assessors, hears. Round, in his Urn, the blended Balls he rowls; Absolves the Just, and dooms the Guilty Souls.Line 585 The next in Place, and Punishment, are they Who prodigally throw their Souls away. Fools, who repining at their wretched State, And loathing anxious life, suborn'd their Fate. Line 590

With late Repentance, now they wou'd retrieveLine 590 The Bodies they forsook, and wish to live. Their Pains and Poverty desire to bear, To view the Light of Heav'n, and breath the vital Air: But Fate forbids; the Stygian Floods oppose; And, with nine circling Streams, the captive Souls inclose.Line 595

Not far from thence, the mournful Fields appear; So call'd from Lovers that inhabit there. The Souls, whom that unhappy Flame invades, In secret Solitude, and Myrtle Shades, Make endless Moans, and pining with Desire,Line 600 Lament too late, their unextinguish'd Fire. Here Procris, Eryphile here, he found Baring her Breast, yet bleeding with the Wound Made by her Son. He saw Pasiphae there, With Phaedra's Ghost, a foul incestuous pair;Line 605 Chast Laodamia, with Evadne, moves: Unhappy both; but loyal in their Loves. Caeneus, a Woman once, and once a Man; But ending in the Sex she first began. Not far from these Phoenician Dido stood;Line 610 Fresh from her Wound, her Bosom bath'd in Blood. Whom, when the Trojan Heroe hardly knew, Obscure in Shades, and with a doubtful view, (Doubtful as he who sees thro' dusky Night,Line 615 Or thinks he sees the Moon's uncertain Light:) With Tears he first approach'd the sullen Shade; And, as his Love inspir'd him, thus he said. Unhappy Queen! then is the common breath Of Rumour true, in your reported Death,Line 620 And I, alas, the Cause! by Heav'n, I vow, And all the Pow'rs that rule the Realms below,

[illustration]

To John Pulteney of the Parish of S^t: James's Westminster Esq.

AE. 6. l. 615

Unwilling I forsook your friendly State: Commanded by the Gods, and forc'd by Fate. Those Gods, that Fate, whose unresisted MightLine 625 Have sent me to these Regions, void of Light, Thro' the vast Empire of eternal Night. Nor dar'd I to presume, that, press'd with Grief, My Flight should urge you to this dire Relief. Stay, stay your Steps, and listen to my Vows:Line 630 'Tis the last Interview that Fate allows! In vain he thus attempts her Mind to move, With Tears, and Pray'rs, and late repenting Love. Disdainfully she look'd; then turning round, But fix'd her Eyes unmov'd upon the Ground.Line 635 And, what he says, and swears, regards no more Than the deaf Rocks, when the loud Billows roar. But whirl'd away, to shun his hateful sight, Hid in the Forest, and the Shades of Night. Then sought Sicheus, thro' the shady Grove,Line 640 Who answer'd all her Cares, and equal'd all her Love. Some pious Tears the pitying Heroe paid; And follow'd with his Eyes the flitting Shade. Then took the forward Way, by Fate ordain'd, And, with his Guide, the farther Fields attain'd;Line 645 Where, sever'd from the rest, the Warrior Souls remain'd. Tideus he met, with Meleager's Race; The Pride of Armies, and the Souldier's Grace; And pale Adrastus with his ghastly Face. Of Trojan Chiefs he view'd a num'rous Train:Line 650 All much lamented, all in Battel slain. Glaucus and Medon, high above the rest, Antenor's Sons, and Ceres sacred Priest: And proud Ideus, Priam's Charioteer; Who shakes his empty Reins, and aims his Airy Spear.Line 655

The gladsome Ghosts, in circling Troops, attend, And with unweary'd Eyes behold their Friend. Delight to hover near; and long to know What buis'ness brought him to the Realms below.

But Argive Chiefs, and Agamemnon's Train,Line 660 When his refulgent Arms flash'd thro' the shady Plain, Fled from his well known Face, with wonted Fear, As when his thund'ring Sword, and pointed Spear, Drove headlong to their Ships, and glean'd the routed Reer. They rais'd a feeble Cry, with trembling Notes:Line 665 But the weak Voice deceiv'd their gasping Throats. Here Priam's Son, Deiphobus, he found: Whose Face and Limbs were one continu'd Wound. Dishonest, with lop'd Arms, the Youth appears: Spoil'd of his Nose, and shorten'd of his Ears.Line 670 He scarcely knew him, striving to disown His blotted Form, and blushing to be known. And therefore first began. O Teucer's Race, Who durst thy faultless Figure thus deface? What heart cou'd wish, what hand inflict this dire Disgrace?Line 675 Twas fam'd, that in our last and fatal Night, Your single Prowess long sustain'd the Fight: Till tir'd, not forc'd, a glorious Fate you chose: And fell upon a Heap of slaughter'd Foes. But in remembrance of so brave a Deed,Line 680 A Tomb, and Fun'ral Honours I decreed: Thrice call'd your Manes, on the Trojan Plains: The place your Armour, and your Name retains. Your Body too I sought; and had I found, Design'd for Burial in your Native Ground.Line 685

The Ghost reply'd, your Piety has paid All needful Rites, to rest my wand'ring Shade: But cruel Fate, and my more cruel Wife, To Grecian Swords betray'd my sleeping Life.

[illustration]

To Christopher Knight Esq of Chanton in Hant∣shire

AE. 6. l. 675.

These are the Monuments of Helen's Love:Line 690 The Shame I bear below, the Marks I bore above. You know in what deluding Joys we past The Night, that was by Heav'n decreed our last. For when the fatal Horse, descending down, Pregnant with Arms, o'rewhelm'd th' unhappy Town;Line 695 She feign'd Nocturnal Orgyes: left my Bed, And, mix'd with Trojan Dames, the Dances led. Then, waving high her Torch, the Signal made, Which rouz'd the Grecians from their Ambuscade. With Watching overworn, with Cares opprest,Line 700 Unhappy I had laid me down to rest; And heavy Sleep my weary Limbs possess'd. Mean time my worthy Wife, our Arms mislay'd; And from beneath my head my Sword convey'd: The Door unlatch'd; and with repeated calls,Line 705 Invites her former Lord within my walls. Thus in her Crime her confidence she plac'd: And with new Treasons wou'd redeem the past. What need I more, into the Room they ran; And meanly murther'd a defenceless Man.Line 710 Ulysses, basely born, first led the way: Avenging Pow'rs! with Justice if I pray, That Fortune be their own another day.

But answer you; and in your turn relate, What brought you, living, to the Stygian State?Line 715 Driv'n by the Winds and Errors of the Sea, Or did you Heav'ns Superior Doom obey? Or tell what other Chance conducts your way? To view, with Mortal Eyes, our dark Retreats, Tumults and Torments of th' Infernal Seats?Line 720 While thus, in talk, the flying Hours they pass, The Sun had finish'd more than half his Race:

And they, perhaps, in Words and Tears had spent The little time of stay, which Heav'n had lent. But thus the Sibyl chides their long delay;Line 725 Night rushes down, and headlong drives the Day: Tis here, in different Paths, the way divides: The right, to Pluto's Golden Palace guides: The left to that unhappy Region tends, Which to the depth of Tartarus descends;Line 730 The Seat of Night profound, and punish'd Fiends. Then thus Deiphobus: O Sacred Maid! Forbear to chide; and be your Will Obey'd: Lo to the secret Shadows I retire, To pay my Penance 'till my Years expire.Line 735 Proceed Auspicious Prince, with Glory Crownd, And born to better Fates than I have found. He said; and while he said, his Steps he turn'd To Secret Shadows; and in silence Mourn'd. The Heroe, looking on the left, espy'dLine 740 A lofty Tow'r, and strong on ev'ry side With treble Walls, which Phlegethon surrounds, Whose fiery Flood the burning Empire bounds: And press'd betwixt the Rocks, the bellowing noise resounds. Wide is the fronting Gate, and rais'd on highLine 745 With Adamantine Columns, threats the Sky. Vain is the force of Man, and Heav'ns as van, To crush the Pillars which the Pile sustain. Sublime on these a Tow'r of Steel is rear'd; And dire Tisiphone there keeps the Ward.Line 750 Girt in her sanguine Gown, by Night and Day, Observant of the Souls that pass the downward way: From hence are heard the Groans of Ghosts, the pains Of sounding Lashes, and of dragging Chains. The Trojan stood astonish'd at their Cries;Line 755 And ask'd his Guide, from whence those Yells arise?

And what the Crimes and what the Tortures were, And loud Laments that rent the liquid Air? She thus reply'd: The chast and holy Race, Are all forbidden this polluted Place.Line 760 But Hecate, when she gave to rule the Woods, Then led me trembling thro' these dire Abodes: And taught the Tortures of th' avenging Gods. These are the Realms of unrelenting Fate: And awful Rhadamanthus rules the State.Line 765 He hears and judges each committed Crime; Enquires into the Manner, Place, and Time. The conscious Wretch must all his Acts reveal: Loath to confefs, unable to conceal: From the first Moment of his vital Breath,Line 770 To his last Hour of unrepenting Death. Straight, o're the guilty Ghost, the Fury shakes The sounding Whip, and brandishes her Snakes: And the pale Sinner, with her Sisters, takes. Then, of it self, unfolds th' Eternal Door:Line 775 With dreadful Sounds the brazen Hinges roar. You see, before the Gate, what stalking Ghost Commands the Guard, what Centries keep the Post: More formidable Hydra stands within; Whose Jaws with Iron Teeth severely grin.Line 780 The gaping Gulph, low to the Centre lies; And twice as deep as Earth is distant from the Skies. The Rivals of the Gods, the Titan Race, Here sing'd with Lightning, rowl within th' unfathom'd space. Here lye th' Alaean Twins, (I saw them both)Line 785 Enormous Bodies, of Gigantick Growth; Who dar'd in Fight the Thund'rer to defy; Affect his Heav'n, and force him from the Sky. Salmoneus, suff'ring cruel Pains, I found, For emulating Jove; the ratling SoundLine 790

Of Mimick Thunder, and the glitt'ring Blaze Of pointed Lightnings, and their forky Rays. Through Elis, and the Grecian Towns he flew: Th' audacious Wretch four fiery Coursers drew: He wav'd a Torch aloft, and, madly vain,Line 795 Sought Godlike Worship from a Servile Train. Ambitious Fool, with horny Hoofs to pass O're hollow Arches, of resounding Brass; To rival Thunder, in its rapid Course: And imitate inimitable Force.Line 800 But he, the King of Heav'n, obscure on high, Bar'd his red Arm, and launching from the Sky His writhen Bolt, not shaking empty Smoak, Down to the deep Abyss the flaming Felon strook. There Tityus was to see; who took his BirthLine 805 From Heav'n, his Nursing from the foodful Earth. Here his Gygantic Limbs, with large Embrace, Infold nine Acres of Infernal Space. A rav'nous Vulture in his open'd side, Her crooked Beak and cruel Tallons try'd:Line 810 Still for the growing Liver dig'd his Breast; The growing Liver still supply'd the Feast. Still are his Entrails fruitful to their Pains: Th' immortal Hunger lasts, th' immortal Food remains. Ixion and Perithous I cou'd name;Line 815 And more Thessalian Chiefs of mighty Fame. High o're their Heads a mould'ring Rock is plac'd, That promises a fall; and shakes at ev'ry Blast. They lye below, on Golden Beds display'd, And genial Feasts, with Regal Pomp, are made.Line 820 The Queen of Furies by their sides is set; And snatches from their Mouths th' untasted Meat. Which, if they touch, her hissing Snakes she rears: Tossing her Torch, and thund'ring in their Ears. Line 825

Then they, who Brothers better Claim disown,Line 825 Expel their Parents, and usurp the Throne; Defraud their Clients, and to Lucre sold, Sit brooding on unprofitable Gold: Who dare not give, and ev'n refuse to lend To their poor Kindred, or a wanting Friend:Line 830 Vast is the Throng of these; nor less the Train Of lustful Youths, for foul Adultry slain. Hosts of Deserters, who their Honour sold, And basely broke their Faith for Bribes of Gold: All these within the Dungeon's depth remain:Line 835 Despairing Pardon, and expecting Pain. Ask not what Pains; nor farther seek to know Their Process, or the Forms of Law below. Some rowl a weighty Stone; some laid along, And bound with burning Wires, on Spokes of Wheels are hung.Line 840 Unhappy Theseus, doom'd for ever there, Is fix'd by Fate on his Eternal Chair: And wretched Phlegias warns the World with Cries; (Cou'd Warning make the World more just or wise,) Learn Righteousness, and dread th' avenging Deities.Line 845 To Tyrants others have their Country sold, Imposing Foreign Lords, for Foreign Gold: Some have old Laws repeal'd, new Statutes made; Not as the People pleas'd, but as they paid. With Incest some their Daughters Bed prophan'd,Line 850 All dar'd the worst of Ills, and what they dar'd, attain'd. Had I a hundred Mouths, a hundred Tongues, And Throats of Brass, inspir'd with Iron Lungs, I could not half those horrid Crimes repeat: Nor half the Punishments those Crimes have met.Line 855 But let us haste our Voyage to pursue; The Walls of Pluto's Palace are in view.

The Gate, and Iron Arch above it, stands: On Anvils labour'd by the Cyclops Hands. Before our farther way the Fates allow,Line 860 Here must we fix on high the Golden Bough. She said, and thro' the gloomy Shades they past, And chose the middle Path: Arriv'd at last, The Prince, with living Water, sprinkl'd o're His Limbs, and Body; then approach'd the Door.Line 865 Possess'd the Porch, and on the Front above He fix'd the fatal Bough, requir'd by Pluto's Love. These Holy Rites perform'd, they took their Way, Where long extended Plains of Pleasure lay. The verdant Fields with those of Heav'n may vye;Line 870 With Aether vested, and a Purple Sky: The blissful Seats of Happy Souls below: Stars of their own, and their own Suns they know. Their Airy Limbs in Sports they exercise, And, on the Green, contend the Wrestler's Prize.Line 875 Some, in Heroick Verse, divinely sing; Others in artful Measures lead the ring. The Thracian Bard, surrounded by the rest, There stands conspicuous in his flowing Vest. His flying Fingers, and harmonious Quill,Line 880 Strike sev'n distinguish'd Notes, and sev'n at once they fill. Here found they Teucer's old Heroick Race; Born better times and happier Years to grace. Assaracus and Ilus here enjoy Perpetual Fame, with him who founded Troy.Line 885 The Chief beheld their Chariots from afar; Their shining Arms, and Coursers train'd to War: Their Lances fix'd in Earth, their Steeds around, Free from their Harness, graze the flow'ry Ground. The love of Horses which they had, alive,Line 890 And care of Chariots, after Death survive.

Some chearful Souls, were feasting on the Plain; Some did the Song, and some the Choir maintain. Beneath a Laurel Shade, where mighty Po Mounts up to Woods above, and hides his Head below.Line 895 Here Patriots live, who, for their Countries good, In fighting Fields, were prodigal of Blood: Priests of unblemish'd Lives here make Abode; And Poets worthy their inspiring God: And searching Wits, of more Mechanick parts,Line 900 Who grac'd their Age with new invented Arts. Those who, to worth, their Bounty did extend; And those who knew that Bounty to commend. The Heads of these with holy Fillets bound; And all their Temples were with Garlands crown'd.Line 905

To these the Sibyl thus her Speech address'd: And first, to him surrounded by the rest; Tow'ring his Height, and ample was his Breast; Say happy Souls, Divine Musaeus say, Where lives Anchises, and where lies our WayLine 910 To find the Heroe, for whose only sake We sought the dark Abodes, and cross'd the bitter Lake? To this the Sacred Poet thus reply'd; In no fix'd place the Happy Souls reside. In Groves we live; and lye on mossy BedsLine 915 By Crystal Streams, that murmur through the Meads: But pass yon easie Hill, and thence descend, The Path conducts you to your Journeys end. This said, he led them up the Mountains brow, And shews them all the shining Fields below;Line 920 They wind the Hill, and thro' the blissful Meadows go. But old Anchises, in a flow'ry Vale, Review'd his muster'd Race; and took the Tale. Those Happy Spirits, which ordain'd by Fate, For future Beings, and new Bodies wait.Line 925

With studious Thought observ'd th' illustrious Throng; In Nature's Order as they pass'd along. Their Names, their Fates, their Conduct, and their Care, In peaceful Senates, and successful War. He, when Aeneas on the Plain appears,Line 930 Meets him with open Arms, and falling Tears. Welcome, he said, the Gods undoubted Race, O long expected to my dear Embrace; Once more 'tis giv'n me to behold your Face! The Love, and Pious Duty which you pay,Line 935 Have pass'd the Perils of so hard a way. 'Tis true, computing times, I now believ'd The happy Day approach'd; nor are my Hopes deceiv'd. What length of Lands, what Oceans have you pass'd, What Storms sustain'd, and on what Shores been cast?Line 940 How have I fear'd your Fate! But fear'd it most, When Love assail'd you, on the Lybian Coast. To this, the Filial Duty thus replies; Your sacred Ghost, before my sleeping Eyes, Appear'd; and often urg'd this painful Enterprise.Line 945 After long tossing on the Tyrrhene Sea, My Navy rides at Anchor in the Bay. But reach your Hand, oh Parent Shade, nor shun The dear Embraces of your longing Son! He said; and falling Tears his Face bedew:Line 950 Then thrice, around his Neck, his Arms he threw; And thrice the flitting Shadow slip'd away; Like Winds, or empty Dreams that fly the Day. Now in a secret Vale, the Trojan sees A sep'rate Grove, thro' which a gentle BreezeLine 955 Plays with a passing Breath, and whispers thro' the Trees. And just before the Confines of the Wood, The gliding Lethe leads her silent Flood.

About the Boughs an Airy Nation flew, Thick as the humming Bees, that hunt the Golden Dew;Line 960 In Summer's heat, on tops of Lillies feed, And creep within their Bells, to suck the balmy Seed. The winged Army roams the Fields around; The Rivers and the Rocks remurmur to the sound. Aeneas wond'ring stood: Then ask'd the Cause,Line 965 Which to the Stream the Crowding People draws. Then thus the Sire. The Souls that throng the Flood Are those, to Whom, by Fate, are other Bodies ow'd: In Lethe's Lake they long Oblivion tast; Of future Life secure, forgetful of the Past.Line 970 Long has my Soul desir'd this time, and place, To set before your sight your glorious Race. That this presaging Joy may fire your Mind, To seek the Shores by Destiny design'd. O Father, can it be, that Souls sublime,Line 975 Return to visit our Terrestrial Clime? And that the Gen'rous Mind, releas'd by Death, Can Covet lazy Limbs, and Mortal Breath? Anchises then, in order, thus begun To clear those Wonders to his Godlike Son.Line 980 Know first, that Heav'n, and Earth's compacted Frame, And flowing Waters, and the starry Flame, And both the Radiant Lights, one Common Soul Inspires, and feeds, and animates the whole. This Active Mind infus'd through all the Space,Line 985 Unites and mingles with the mighty Mass. Hence Men and Beasts the Breath of Life obtain; And Birds of Air, and Monsters of the Main. Th' Etherial Vigour is in all the same, And every Soul is fill'd with equal Flame:Line 990 As much as Earthy Limbs, and gross allay Of Mortal Members, subject to decay, Blunt not the Beams of Heav'n and edge of Day.

From this course Mixture of Terrestial parts, Desire, and Fear, by turns possess their Hearts:Line 995 And Grief, and Joy: Nor can the groveling Mind, In the dark Dungeon of the Limbs confin'd, Assert the Native Skies; or own its heav'nly Kind. Nor Death it self can wholly wash their Stains; But long contracted Filth, ev'n in the Soul remains.Line 1000 The Reliques of inveterate Vice they wear; And Spots of Sin obscene, in ev'ry Face appear. For this are various Penances enjoyn'd; And some are hung to bleach, upon the Wind; Some plung'd in Waters, others purg'd in Fires,Line 1005 Till all the Dregs are drain'd: and all the Rust expires: All have their Manes, and those Manes bear: The few, so cleans'd to these Abodes repair: And breath, in ample Fields, the soft Elysian Air. Then are they happy, when by length of timeLine 1010 The Scurf is worn away, of each committed Crime. No Speck is left, of their habitual Stains; But the pure Aether of the Soul remains. But, when a Thousand rowling Years are past, (So long their Punishments and Penance last;)Line 1015 Whole Droves of Minds are, by the driving God, Compell'd to drink the deep Lethaean Flood: In large forgetful draughts to steep the Cares Of their past Labours, and their Irksom Years. That, unrememb'ring of its former Pain,Line 1020 The Soul may suffer mortal Flesh again. Thus having said; the Father Spirit, leads The Priestess and his Son through Swarms of Shades. And takes a rising Ground, from thence to see The long Procession of his Progeny.Line 1025 Survey (pursu'd the Sire) this airy Throng; As, offer'd to thy view, they pass along.

These are th' Italian Names, which Fate will join With ours, and graff upon the Trojan Line. Observe the Youth who first appears in sight;Line 1030 And holds the nearest Station to the Light: Already seems to snuff the vital Air; And leans just forward, on a shining Spear, Silvius is he: thy last begotten Race; But first in order sent, to fill thy place,Line 1035 An Alban Name; but mix'd with Dardan Blood; Born in the Covert of a shady Wood: Him fair Lavinia, thy surviving Wife, Shall breed in Groves, to lead a solitary Life. In Alba he shall fix his Royal Seat:Line 1040 And, born a King, a Race of Kings beget. Then Procas, Honour of the Trojan Name, Capys, and Numitor, of endless Fame. A second Silvius after these appears; Silvius Aeneas, for thy Name he bears.Line 1045 For Arms and Justice equally renown'd; Who, late restor'd, in Alba shall be crown'd. How great they look, how vig'rously they wield Their weighty Lances, and sustain the Shield! But they, who crown'd with Oaken Wreaths appear,Line 1050 Shall Gabian Walls, and strong Fidena rear: Nomentum, Bola, with Pometia, found; And raise Colatian Tow'rs on Rocky Ground. All these shall then be Towns of mighty Fame; Tho' now they lye obscure; and Lands without a Name.Line 1055 See Romulus the great, born to restore The Crown that once his injur'd Grandsire wore. This Prince, a Priestess of our Blood shall bear; And like his Sire in Arms he shall appear. Two rising Crests his Royal Head adorn;Line 1060 Born from a God, himself to Godhead born.

His Sire already signs him for the Skies, And marks his Seat amidst the Deities. Auspicious Chief! thy Race in times to come Shall spread the Conquests of Imperial Rome.Line 1065 Rome whose ascending Tow'rs shall Heav'n invade; Involving Earth and Ocean in her Shade. High as the Mother of the Gods in place; And proud, like her, of an Immortal Race. Then when in Pomp she makes the Phrygian round;Line 1070 With Golden Turrets on her Temples crown'd: A hundred Gods her sweeping Train supply; Her Offspring all, and all command the Sky. Now fix your Sight, and stand intent, to see Your Roman Race, and Julian Progeny.Line 1075 The mighty Caesar waits his vital Hour; Impatient for the World, and grasps his promis'd Pow'r. But next behold the Youth of Form Divine, Caesar himself, exalted in his Line; Augustus, promis'd oft, and long foretold,Line 1080 Sent to the Realm that Saturn rul'd of old; Born to restore a better Age of Gold. Affrick, and India, shall his Pow'r obey, He shall extend his propagated Sway, Beyond the Solar Year; without the starry Way.Line 1085 Where Atlas turns the rowling Heav'ns around; And his broad Shoulders with their Lights are crown'd. At his fore-seen Approach, already quake The Caspian Kingdoms, and Maeotian Lake. Their Seers behold the Tempest from afar;Line 1090 And threatning Oracles denounce the War. Nile hears him knocking at his sev'nfold Gates; And seeks his hidden Spring, and fears his Nephew's Fates▪ Nor Hercules more Lands or Labours knew, Not tho' the brazen-footed Hind he slew;Line 1095

[illustration]

To Robert Harley of Bramton Castle in y^e County of Hereford Esq

AE. 6. l. 1085.

Freed Erymanthus from the foaming Boar, And dip'd his Arrows in Lernaean Gore. Nor Bacchus, turning from his Indian War, By Tygers drawn triumphant in his Car, From Nisus top descending on the Plains;Line 1100 With curling Vines around his purple Reins. And doubt we yet thro' Dangers to pursue The Paths of Honour, and a Crown in view? But what's the Man, who from afar appears, His Head with Olive crown'd, his Hand a Censer bears?Line 1105 His hoary Beard, and holy Vestments bring His lost Idea back: I know the Roman King. He shall to peaceful Rome new Laws ordain: Call'd from his mean abode, a Scepter to sustain. Him, Tullus next in Dignity succeeds;Line 1110 An active Prince, and prone to Martial Deeds. For fighting Fields his Troops he shall prepare, Disus'd to Toils, and Triumphs of the War. By dint of Sword his Crown he shall increase; And scour his Armour from the Rust of Peace.Line 1115 Whom Ancus follows, with a fawning Air; But vain within, and proudly popular. Next view the Tarquin Kings: Th' avenging Sword Of Brutus, justly drawn, and Rome restor'd. He first renews the Rods, and Axe severe;Line 1120 And gives the Consuls Royal Robes to wear. His Sons, who seek the Tyrant to sustain, And long for Arbitrary Lords again, With Ignominy scourg'd, in open sight, He dooms to Death deserv'd; asserting Publick Right.Line 1125 Unhappy Man, to break the Pious Laws Of Nature, pleading in his Children's Cause! Howe're the doubtful Fact is understood, 'Tis Love of Honour, and his Country's good: The Consul, not the Father, sheds the Blood.Line 1130

Behold Torquatus the same Track pursue; And next, the three devoted Decij view. The Drusian Line, Camillus loaded home With Standards well redeem'd, and foreign Foes o'recome. The Pair you see in equal Armour shine;Line 1135 (Now, Friends below, in close Embraces join: But when they leave the shady Realms of Night, And, cloath'd in Bodies, breath your upper Light,) With mortal Hate each other shall pursue: What Wars, what Wounds, what Slaughter shall ensue!Line 1140 From Alpine Heights the Father first descends; His Daughter's Husband in the Plain attends: His Daughter's Husband arms his Eastern Friends. Embrace again, my Sons, be Foes no more: Nor stain your Country with her Childrens Gore.Line 1145 And thou, the first, lay down thy lawless claim; Thou, of my Blood, who bear'st the Julian Name. Another comes, who shall in Triumph ride; And to the Capitol his Chariot guide; From conquer'd Corinth, rich with Grecian Spoils.Line 1150 And yet another, fam'd for Warlike Toils, On Argos shall impose the Roman Laws: And, on the Greeks, revenge the Trojan Cause: Shall drag in Chains their Achillaean Race; Shall vindicate his Ancestors Disgrace:Line 1155 And Pallas, for her violated Place. Great Cato there, for Gravity renown'd, And conqu'ring Cossus goes with Lawrels crown'd. Who can omit the Gracchi, who declare The Scipio's Worth, those Thunderbolts of War,Line 1160 The double Bane of Carthage? Who can see, Without esteem for virtuous Poverty, Severe Fabritius, or can cease t' admire The Ploughman Consul in his Course Attire! Line 1165

Tir'd as I am, my Praise the Fabij claim;Line 1165 And thou great Heroe, greatest of thy Name; Ordain'd in War to save the sinking State, And, by Delays, to put a stop to Fate! Let others better mold the running Mass Of Mettals, and inform the breathing Brass;Line 1170 And soften into Flesh a Marble Face: Plead better at the Bar; describe the Skies, And when the Stars descend, and when they rise. But, Rome, 'tis thine alone, with awful sway, To rule Mankind; and make the World obey;Line 1175 Disposing Peace, and War, thy own Majestick Way. To tame the Proud, the fetter'd Slave to free; These are Imperial Arts, and worthy thee. He paus'd: And while with wond'ring Eyes they view'd The passing Spirits, thus his Speech renew'd.Line 1180 See great Marcellus! how, untir'd in Toils, He moves with Manly grace, how rich with Regal Spoils He, when his Country, (threaten'd with Alarms,) Requires his Courage, and his Conqu'ring Arms, Shall more than once the Punic Bands affright:Line 1185 Shall kill the Gaulish King in single Fight: Then, to the Capitol in Triumph move, And the third Spoils shall grace Feretrian Jove. Aeneas, here, beheld of Form Divine A Godlike Youth, in glitt'ring Armour shine:Line 1190 With great Marcellus keeping equal pace; But gloomy were his Eyes, dejected was his Face: He saw, and, wond'ring, ask'd his airy Guide, What, and of whence was he, who press'd the Hero's side? His Son, or one of his Illustrious Name,Line 1195 How like the former, and almost the same: Observe the Crowds that compass him around; All gaze, and all admire, and raise a shouting sound:

But hov'ring Mists around his Brows are spread, And Night, with sable Shades, involves his Head.Line 1200 Seek not to know (the Ghost reply'd with Tears) The Sorrows of thy Sons, in future Years. This Youth (the blissful Vision of a day) Shall just be shown on Earth, and snatch'd away. The Gods too high had rais'd the Roman State;Line 1205 Were but their Gifts as permanent as great. What groans of Men shall fill the Martian Field! How fierce a Blaze his flaming Pile shall yield! What Fun'ral Pomp shall floating Tiber see, When, rising from his Bed, he views the sad Solemnity!Line 1210 No Youth shall equal hopes of Glory give: No Youth afford so great a Cause to grieve. The Trojan Honour, and the Roman Boast; Admir'd when living, and Ador'd when lost! Mirror of ancient Faith in early Youth!Line 1215 Undaunted Worth, Inviolable Truth! No Foe unpunish'd in the fighting Field, Shall dare thee Foot to Foot, with Sword and Shield. Much less, in Arms oppose thy matchless Force, When thy sharp Spurs shall urge thy foaming Horse.Line 1220 Ah, cou'dst thou break through Fates severe Decree, A new Marcellus shall arise in thee! Full Canisters of fragrant Lillies bring, Mix'd with the Purple Roses of the Spring: Let me with Fun'ral Flow'rs his Body strow;Line 1225 This Gift which Parents to their Children owe, This unavailing Gift, at least I may bestow! Thus having said, He led the Heroe round The confines of the blest Elysian Ground. Which, when Anchises to his Son had shown,Line 1230 And fir'd his Mind to mount the promis'd Throne,

He tells the future Wars, ordain'd by Fate; The Strength and Customs of the Latian State: The Prince, and People: And fore-arms his Care With Rules, to push his Fortune, or to bear.Line 1235 Two Gates the silent House of Sleep adorn; Of polish'd Iv'ry this, that of transparent Horn: Of various things discoursing as he pass'd, Anchises hither bends his Steps at last. Then, through the Gate of Iv'ry, he dismiss'dLine 1240 His valiant Offspring, and Divining Guest. Streight to the Ships Aeneas took his way; Embarqu'd his Men, and skim'd along the Sea: Still Coasting, till he gain'd Cajeta's Bay. At length on Oozy ground his Gallies moor:Line 1245 Their Heads are turn'd to Sea, their Sterns to Shoar.

The Seventh Book of the Aeneis.

The Argument.

King Latinus entertains Aeneas, and promises him his only Daughter, Lavinia, the Heiress of his Crown. Turnus being in Love with her, favour'd by her Mother, and stir'd up by Juno, and Alecto, breaks the Treaty which was made, and engages in his Quarrel, Me∣zentius, Camilla, Messapus, and many others of the Neighbou∣ring Princes; whose Forces and the Names of their Commanders are here particularly related.

AND thou, O Matron of Immortal Fame! Here Dying, to the Shore hast left thy Name: Cajeta still the place is call'd from thee, The Nurse of great Aeneas Infancy. Here rest thy Bones in rich Hesperia's Plains,Line 5 Thy Name ('tis all a Ghost can have) remains.

Now, when the Prince her Fun'ral Rites had paid, He plough'd the Tyrrhene Seas with Sails display'd. From Land a gentle Breeze arose by Night, Serenely shone the Stars, the Moon was bright,Line 10 And the Sea trembled with her Silver Light. Now near the Shelves of Circe's Shores they run, (Circe the rich, the Daughter of the Sun) A dang'rous Coast: The Goddess wasts her Days In joyous Songs, the Rocks resound her Lays:Line 15 In spinning, or the Loom, she spends the Night, And Cedar Brands supply her Father's Light. From hence were heard, (rebellowing to the Main,) The Roars of Lyons that refuse the Chain, The Grunts of Bristled Boars, and Groans of Bears,Line 20 And Herds of Howling Wolves that stun the Sailors Ears.

[illustration]

To the Right Hon^ble Henry Earle of Romney Viscount Sydney of Shippy Baron Milton Master Generall of the Ordinance L^d Warden of the Cinque Ports &^ct

AE. 7. l: 2.

These from their Caverns, at the close of Night, Fill the sad Isle with Horror and Affright. Darkling they mourn their Fate, whom Circe's Pow'r (That watch'd the Moon, and Planetary Hour)Line 25 With Words and wicked Herbs, from Human Kind Had alter'd, and in Brutal Shapes confin'd. Which Monsters, lest the Trojans pious Host Shou'd bear, or touch upon th' inchanted Coast; Propitious Neptune steer'd their Course by Night,Line 30 With rising Gales, that sped their happy Flight. Supply'd with these, they skim the sounding Shore, And hear the swelling Surges vainly roar. Now when the rosie Morn began to rise, And wav'd her Saffron Streamer thro' the Skies;Line 35 When Thetis blush'd in Purple, not her own, And from her Face the breathing Winds were blown: A sudden Silence sate upon the Sea, And sweeping Oars, with Strugling, urge their Way.

The Trojan, from the Main beheld a Wood,Line 40 Which thick with Shades, and a brown Horror, stood: Betwixt the Trees the Tyber took his Course, With Whirlpools dimpled; and with downward Force. That drove the Sand along, he took his Way, And rowl'd his yellow Billows to the Sea.Line 45 About him, and above, and round the Wood, The Birds that haunt the Borders of his Flood; That bath'd within, or bask'd upon his side, To tuneful Songs their narrow Throats apply'd. The Captain gives Command, the joyful TrainLine 50 Glide thro' the gloomy Shade, and leave the Main.

Now, Erato, thy Poet's Mind inspire, And fill his Soul with thy Coelestial Fire. Relate what Latium was, her ancient Kings: Declare the past, and present State of things,Line 55

When first the Trojan Fleet Ausonia sought; And how the Rivals lov'd, and how they fought. These are my Theme, and how the War began, And how concluded by the Godlike Man. For I shall sing of Battels, Blood, and Rage,Line 60 Which Princes, and their People did engage: And haughty Souls, that mov'd with mutual Hate, In fighting Fields pursu'd and found their Fate: That rouz'd the Tyrrhene Realm with loud Alarms, And peaceful Italy involv'd in Arms.Line 65 A larger Scene of Action is display'd, And, rising hence, a greater Work is weigh'd.

Latinus old and mild, had long possess'd The Latian Scepter, and his People bless'd: His Father Faunus: a Laurentian DameLine 70 His Mother, fair Marica was her Name. But Faunus came from Picus, Picus drew His Birth from Saturn, if Records be true. Thus King Latinus, in the third Degree, Had Saturn Author of his Family.Line 75 But this old peaceful Prince, as Heav'n decreed, Was bless'd with no Male Issue to succeed: His Sons in blooming Youth were snatch'd by Fate; One only Daughter heir'd the Royal State. Fir'd with her Love, and with Ambition led,Line 80 The neighb'ring Princes court her nuptial Bed. Among the Crowd, but far above the rest, Young Turnus to the Beauteous Maid address'd. Turnus, for great Descent, and graceful Meen, Was first, and favour'd by the Latian Queen:Line 85 With him she strove to join Lavinia's Hand: But dire Portents the purpos'd Match withstand.

Deep in the Palace, of long Growth there stood A Lawrels Trunk, a venerable Wood; Line 90

Where Rites Divine were paid; whose holy HairLine 90 Was kept, and cut with superstitious Care. This Plant Latinus, when his Town he wall'd, Then found, and from the Tree Laurentum call'd: And last in Honour of his new Abode, He vow'd the Lawrel, to the Lawrel's God.Line 95 It happen'd once, (a bodeing Prodigy,) A swarm of Bees, that cut the liquid Sky, Unknown from whence they took their airy flight, Upon the topmost Branch in Clouds alight: There, with their clasping Feet together clung,Line 100 And a long Cluster srom the Lawrel hung. An ancient Augur prophesy'd from hence: Behold on Latian Shores a foreign Prince! From the same parts of Heav'n his Navy stands, To the same parts on Earth: his Army lands;Line 105 The Town he conquers, and the Tow'r commands. Yet more, when fair Lavinia fed the Fire Before the Gods, and stood beside her Sire; Strange to relate, the Flames, involv'd in Smoke Of Incense, from the sacred Altar broke;Line 110 Caught her dishevell'd Hair, and rich Attire; Her Crown and Jewels crackled in the Fire: From thence the fuming Trail began to spread, And lambent Glories danc'd about her Head. This new Portent the Seer with Wonder views;Line 115 Then pausing, thus his Prophecy renews. The Nymph who scatters flaming Fires around, Shall shine with Honour, shall herself be crown'd: But, caus'd by her irrevocable Fate, War shall the Country waste, and change the State.Line 120 Latinus, frighted with this dire Ostent, For Counsel to his Father Faunus went:

And sought the Shades renown'd for Prophecy, Which near Albunea's sulph'rous Fountain lye. To these the Latian, and the Sabine LandLine 125 Fly, when distress'd, and thence Relief demand. The Priest on Skins of Off'rings takes his Ease; And nightly Visions in his Slumber sees: A swarm of thin aerial Shapes appears, And, flutt'ring round his Temples, deafs his Ears:Line 130 These he consults, the future Fates to know, From Pow'rs above, and from the Fiends below. Here, for the Gods advice, Latinus flies, Off'ring a hundred Sheep for Sacrifice: Their wooly Fleeces, as the Rites requir'd,Line 135 He laid beneath him, and to Rest retir'd. No sooner were his Eyes in Slumber bound, When, from above, a more than Mortal Sound Invades his Ears; and thus the Vision spoke: Seek not, my Seed, in Latian Bands to YokeLine 140 Our fair Lavinia, nor the Gods provoke. A foreign Son upon thy Shore descends, Whose Martial Fame from Pole to Pole extends. His Race in Arms, and Arts of Peace renown'd, Not Latium shall contain, nor Europe bound:Line 145 'Tis theirs what e're the Sun surveys around. These Answers in the silent Night receiv'd, The King himself divulg'd, the Land believ'd: The Fame through all the Neighb'ring Nations flew, When now the Trojan Navy was in view.Line 150

Beneath a shady Tree the Heroe spread His Table on the Turf, with Cakes of Bread; And, with his Chiefs, on Forest Fruits he fed. They sate, and (not without the God's Command) Their homely Fare dispatch'd; the hungry BandLine 155

[illustration]

To Anthony Henley of y^e Grange in Hantshire Esq^r:

AE. 7 l. 152

Invade their Trenchers next, and soon devour, To mend the scanty Meal, their Cakes of Flow'r. Ascanius this observ'd, and, smiling, said, See, we devour the Plates on which we fed. The Speech had Omen, that the Trojan RaceLine 160 Shou'd find Repose, and this the Time and Place. Aeneas took the Word, and thus replies; (Confessing Fate with Wonder in his Eyes) All hail, O Earth! all hail my household Gods, Behold the destin'd place of your Abodes!Line 165 For thus Anchises prophesy'd of old, And this our fatal place of Rest foretold. "When on a Foreign Shore, instead of Meat, "By Famine forc'd, your Trenchers you shall eat; "Then Ease your weary Trojans will attend:Line 170 "And the long Labours of your Voyage end. "Remember on that happy Coast to build: "And with a Trench inclose the fruitful Field. This was that Famine, this the fatal place, Which ends the Wand'ring of our exil'd Race.Line 175 Then, on to Morrow's Dawn, your Care employ, To search the Land, and where the Cities lye, And what the Men; but give this Day to Joy.

Now pour to Jove, and after Jove is blest, Call great Anchises to the Genial Feast:Line 180 Crown high the Goblets with a chearful Draught; Enjoy the present Hour, adjourn the future Thought.

Thus having said, the Heroe bound his Brows. With leafy Branches, then perform'd his Vows: Adoring first the Genius of the Place;Line 185 Then Earth, the Mother of the Heav'nly Race; The Nymphs, and native Godheads yet unknown, And Night, and all the Stars that guild her sable Throne.

And ancient Cybel, and Idaean Jove; And last his Sire below, and Mother Queen above.Line 190

Then Heav'ns high Monarch thundred thrice aloud, And thrice he shook aloft, a Golden Cloud. Soon thro' the joyful Camp a Rumor flew, The time was come their City to renew: Then ev'ry Brow with chearful Green is crown'd,Line 195 The Feasts are doubl'd, and the Bowls go round.

When next the rosie Morn disclos'd the Day, The Scouts to sev'ral parts divide their Way, To learn the Natives Names, their Towns, explore The Coasts, and Trendings of the crooked Shore:Line 200 Here Tyber flows, and here Numicus stands, Here warlike Latins hold the happy Lands.

The Pious Chief, who sought by peaceful Ways, To found his Empire, and his Town to raise; A hundred Youths from all his Train elects;Line 205 And to the Latian Court their Course directs: (The spacious Palace where their Prince resides;) And all their heads with Wreaths of Olive hides. They go commission'd to require a Peace; And carry Presents to procure Access.Line 210 Thus while they speed their Pace, the Prince designs His new elected Seat, and draws the Lines: The Trojans round the place a Rampire cast, And Palisades about the Trenches plac'd.

Mean time the Train, proceeding on their way,Line 215 From far the Town, and lofty Tow'rs survey: At length approach the Walls: without the Gate They see the Boys, and Latian Youth debate The Martial Prizes on the dusty Plain; Some drive the Cars, and some the Coursers rein:Line 220 Some bend the stubborn Bow for Victory; And some with Darts their active Sinews try.

A posting Messenger dispatch'd from hence, Of this fair Troop advis'd their aged Prince; That foreign Men, of mighty Stature, came;Line 225 Uncouth their Habit, and unknown their Name. The King ordains their entrance, and ascends His Regal Seat, surrounded by his Friends. The Palace built by Picus, vast and Proud, Supported by a hundred Pillars stoodLine 230 And round incompas'd with a rising Wood. The Pile o'relook'd the Town, and drew the sight; Surpriz'd at once with Reverence and Delight. There Kings receiv'd the Marks of Sov'raign Pow'r: In State the Monarchs march'd, the Lictors boreLine 235 Their Awful Axes, and the Rods before. Here the Tribunal stood, the House of Pray'r; And here the sacred Senators repair: All at large Tables, in long order set, A Ram their Off'ring, and a Ram their Meat.Line 240 Above the Portal, Carv'd in Cedar Wood, Plac'd in their Ranks, their Godlike Grandsires stood. Old Saturn, with his crooked Scythe, on high; And Italus, that led the Colony: And ancient Janus, with his double Face,Line 245 And Bunch of Keys, the Porter of the place. There good Sabinus, planter of the Vines, On a short Pruning-hook his Head reclines: And studiously surveys his gen'rous Wines. Then Warlike Kings, who for their Country fought,Line 250 And honourable Wounds from Battel brought. Around the Posts hung Helmets, Darts, and Spears; And Captive Chariots, Axes, Shields, and Bars, And broken Beaks of Ships, the Trophies of their Wars. Above the rest, as Chief of all the Band,Line 255 Was Picus plac'd, a Buckler in his hand; His other wav'd a long divining Wand.

Girt in his Gabin Gown the Heroe sate: Yet could not with his Art avoid his Fate. For Circe long had lov'd the Youth in vain,Line 260 Till Love, refus'd, converted to Disdain: Then mixing pow'rful Herbs, with Magic Art, She chang'd his Form, who cou'd not change his heart. Constrain'd him in a Bird, and made him fly, With party-colour'd Plumes, a Chattring Pye.Line 265 On this high Temple, on a Chair of State, The Seat of Audience, old Latinus sate; Then gave admiffion to the Trojan Train, And thus, with pleasing accents, he b••gan. Tell me, ye Trojans, for that Name you own,Line 270 Nor is your Course upon our Coasts unknown; Say what you seek, and whither were you bound? Were you by stress of Weather cast a-ground? Such dangers as on Seas are often seen, And oft befall to miserable Men?Line 275 Or come, your Shipping in our Ports to lay, Spent and disabl'd in so long a way? Say what you want, the Latians you shall find Not forc'd to Goodness, but by Will inclin'd: For since the time of Saturn's holy Reign,Line 280 His Hospitable Customs we retain. I call to mind, but (Time the Tale has worn,) Th' Arunci told; that Dardanus, tho' born On Latian Plains, yet sought the Phrygian Shore, And Samothracia, Samos call'd before:Line 285 From Tuscan Coritum he claim'd his Birth, But after, when exempt from Mortal Earth, From thence ascended to his kindred Skies, A God, and as a God augments their Sacrifice. He said. Ilioneus made this Reply,Line 290 O King, of Faunus Royal Family!

[illustration]

To George Stepney Esq^r. His Ma^ties. Envoy Extra^ry: to Severall Princes in, Germany and one of the Coincill of Trade

AE. 7. l. 2••••

Nor Wint'ry Winds to Latium forc'd our way, Nor did the Stars our wand'ring Course betray. Willing we sought your Shores, and hither bound, The Port so long desir'd, at length we found.Line 295 From our sweet Homes and ancient Realms expell'd; Great as the greatest that the Sun beheld. The God began our Line, who rules above, And as our Race, our King descends from Jove: And hither are we come, by his Command,Line 300 To crave Admission in your happy Land. How dire a Tempest, from Mycenae pour'd, Our Plains, our Temples, and our Town devour'd; What was the Waste of War, what fierce Alarms Shook Asia's Crown with Europaean Arms;Line 305 Ev'n such have heard, if any such there be, Whose Earth is bounded by the frozen Sea: And such as born beneath the burning Sky, And sultry Sun betwixt the Tropicks lye. From that dire Deluge, through the wat'ry Waste,Line 310 Such length of Years, such various Perils past: At last escap'd, to Latium we repair, To beg what you without your Want may spare; The common Water, and the common Air. Sheds which our selves will build, and mean abodes,Line 315 Fit to receive and serve our banish'd Gods. Nor our Admission shall your Realm disgrace, Nor length of time our Gratitude efface. Besides, what endless Honour you shall gain To save and shelter Troy's unhappy Train.Line 320 Now, by my Sov'raign, and his Fate I swear, Renown'd for Faith in Peace, for Force in War; Oft our Alliance other Lands desir'd, And what we seek of you, of us requir'd. Line 325

Despise not then, that in our Hands we bearLine 325 These Holy Boughs, and sue with Words of Pray'r. Fate and the Gods, by their supreme Command, Have doom'd our Ships to seek the Latian Land. To these abodes our Fleet Apollo sends; Here Dardanus was born, and hither tends:Line 330 Where Thuscan Tyber rowls with rapid Force, And where Numicus opes his Holy Source. Besides our Prince presents, with his Request, Some small Remains of what his Sire possess'd. This Golden Charger, snatch'd from burning Troy,Line 335 Anchises did in Sacrifice employ: This Royal Robe, and this Tiara wore Old Priam, and this Golden Scepter bore In full Assemblies, and in solemn Games; These Purple Vests were weav'd by Dardan Dames.Line 340

Thus while he spoke, Latinus rowld around His Eyes, and fix'd a while upon the Ground. Intent he seem'd, and anxious in his Breast; Not by the Scepter mov'd, or Kingly Vest: But pond'ring future Things of wond'rous Weight;Line 345 Succession, Empire, and his Daughter's Fate: On these he mus'd within his thoughtful Mind; And then revolv'd what Faunus had divin'd. This was the Foreign Prince, by Fate decreed To share his Scepter, and Lavinia's Bed:Line 350 This was the Race, that sure Portents foreshew To sway the World, and Land and Sea subdue. At length he rais'd his chearful Head, and spoke▪ The Pow'rs, said he, the Pow'rs we both invoke, To you, and yours, and mine, propitious be,Line 355 And firm our Purpose with their Augury. Have what you ask; your Presents I receive, Land where, and when you please, with ample Leave:

Partake and use my Kingdom as your own; All shall be yours, while I command the Crown.Line 360 And if my wish'd Alliance please your King, Tell him he shou'd not send the Peace, but bring: Then let him not a Friend's Embraces fear; The Peace is made when I behold him here. Besides this Answer, tell my Royal Guest,Line 365 I add to his Commands, my own Request: One only Daughter heirs my Crown and State, Whom, not our Oracles, nor Heav'n, nor Fate, Nor frequent Prodigies permit to join With any Native of th' Ausonian Line.Line 370 A foreign Son-in-Law shall come from far, (Such is our Doom) a Chief renown'd in War: Whose Race shall bear alost the Latian Name, And through the conquer'd World diffuse our Fame. Himself to be the Man the Fates require,Line 375 I firmly judge, and what I judge, desire. He said, and then on each bestow'd a Steed; Three hundred Horses, in high Stables f••d, Stood ready, shining all, and smoothly dress'd; Of these he chose the fairest and the best,Line 380 To mount the Trojan Troop; at his Command, The Steeds caparison'd with Purple stand; With Golden Trappings, glorious to behold, And champ betwixt their Teeth the foaming Gold. Then to his absent Guest the King decreedLine 385 A pair of Coursers born of Heav'nly Breed: Who from their Nostrils breath'd Etherial Fire; Whom Circe stole from her Coelestial Sire: By substituting Mares, produc'd on Earth, Whose Wombs conceiv'd a more than Mortal Birth.Line 390 These draw the Chariot which Latinus sends; And the rich Present to the Prince commends.

Sublime on stately Steeds the Trojans born; To their expecting Lord with Peace return.

But jealous Juno, from Pachynus height,Line 395 As she from Argos took her airy Flight, Beheld, with envious Eyes, this hateful Sight. She saw the Trojan, and his joyful Train Descend upon the Shore, desert the Main; Design a Town, and with unhop'd SuccessLine 400 Th' Embassadors return with promis'd Peace. Then pierc'd with Pain, she shook her haughty Head; Sigh'd from her inward Soul; and thus she said. O hated Off-spring of my Phrygian Foes! O Fates of Troy, which Juno's Fates oppose!Line 405 Cou'd they not fall unpity'd, on the Plain, But slain revive, and taken, scape again? When execrable Troy in Ashes lay, Thro' Fires, and Swords, and Seas, they forc'd their Way. Then vanquish'd Juno must in vain contend,Line 410 Her Rage disarm'd, her Empire at an end. Breathless and tir'd, is all my Fury spent, Or does my glutted Spleen at length relent? As if 'twere little from their Town to chase, I thro' the Seas pursu'd their exil'd Race:Line 415 Ingag'd the Heavn's, oppos'd the Stormy Main; But Billows roar'd, and Tempests rag'd in vain. What have my Scylla's and my Sirtes done, When these they overpass, and those they shun? On Tyber's Shores they land, secure of Fate,Line 420 Triumphant o're the Storms and Juno's Hate. Mars cou'd in mutual Blood the Centaurs bath, And Jove himself gave way to Cynthia's Wrath; Who sent the tusky Boar to Calydon: What great Offence had either People done?Line 425

But I, the Confort of the Thunderer, Have wag'd a long and unsuccessful War: With various Arts and Arms in vain have toil'd, And by a Mortal Man at length am foil'd. If native Pow'r prevail not, shall I doubtLine 430 To seek for needful Succour from without: If Jove and Heav'n my just Desires deny, Hell shall the Pow'r of Heav'n and Jove supply. Grant that the Fates have firm'd, by their Decree, The Trojan Race to reign in Italy;Line 435 At least I can defer the Nuptial Day, And with protracted Wars the Peace delay: With Blood the dear Alliance shall be bought; And both the People to Destruction brought. So shall the Son-in-Law, and Father join,Line 440 With Ruin, War, and Waste of either Line. O fatal Maid! thy Marriage is endow'd With Phrygian, Latian, and Rutulian Blood! Bellona leads thee to thy Lover's Hand, Another Queen brings forth another Brand;Line 445 To burn with foreign Fires her native Land! A second Paris, diff'ring but in Name, Shall fire his Country with a second Flame.

Thus having said, she sinks beneath the Ground, With furious haste, and shoots the Stygian Sound;Line 450 To rowze Alecto from th' Infernal Seat Of her dire Sisters, and their dark Retreat. This Fury, fit for her Intent, she chose; One who delights in Wars, and Human Woes. Ev'n Pluto hates his own mishapen Race:Line 455 Her Sister-Furies fly her hideous Face: So frightful are the Forms the Monster takes, So fierce the Hissings of her speckled Snakes.

Her Juno finds, and thus inflames her Spight: O Virgin Daughter of Eternal Night,Line 460 Give me this once thy Labour, to sustain My Right, and execute my just disdain. Let not the Trojans, with a feign'd Pretence Of proffer'd Peace, delude the Latian Prince: Expel from Italy that odious Name,Line 465 And let not Juno suffer in her Fame. 'Tis thine to ruin Realms, o'return a State, Betwixt the dearest Friends to raise Debate; And kindle kindred Blood to mutual Hate. Thy Hand o're Towns the fun'ral Torch displays,Line 470 And forms a thousand Ills ten thousand Ways. Now shake from out thy fruitful Breast, the Seeds Of Envy, Discord, and of Cruel Deeds: Confound the Peace establish'd, and prepare Their Souls to Hatred, and their Hands to War.Line 475 Smear'd as she was with black Gorgonean Blood, The Fury sprang above the Stygian Flood: And on her wicker Wings, sublime through Night, She to the Latian Palace took her Flight. There sought the Queen's Apartment, stood beforeLine 480 The peaceful Threshold, and besieg'd the Door. Restless Amata lay, her swelling Breast Fir'd with Disdain for Turnus dispossest, And the new Nuptials of the Trojan Guest. From her black bloody Locks the Fury shakesLine 485 Her darling Plague, the Fav'rite of her Snakes: With her full Force she threw the pois'nous Dart, And fix'd it deep within Amata's Heart. That thus envenom'd she might kindle Rage, And sacrifice to Strife her House and Husbands Age.Line 490 Unseen, unfelt, the fiery Serpent skims Betwixt her Linnen, and her naked Limbs.

His baleful Breath inspiring, as he glides, Now like a Chain around her Neck he rides; Now like a Fillet to her Head repairs,Line 495 And with his Circling Volumes folds her Hairs: At first the silent Venom slid with ease, And seiz'd her cooler Senses by degrees; Then e're th' infected Mass was fir'd too far, In Plaintive Accents she began the War:Line 500 And thus bespoke her Husband; Shall, she said, A wandring Prince enjoy Lavinia's Bed? If Nature plead not in a Parent's Heart, Pity my Tears, and pity her Desert: I know, my dearest Lord, the time will come,Line 505 You wou'd, in vain, reverse your Cruel doom: The faithless Pirate soon will set to Sea, And bear the Royal Virgin far away! A Guest like him, a Trojan Guest before, In shew of friendship, sought the Spartan Shore;Line 510 And ravish'd Helen from her Husband bore. Think on a King's inviolable Word; And think on Turnus, her once plighted Lord: To this false Foreigner you give your Throne, And wrong a Friend, a Kinsman, and a Son.Line 515 Resume your ancient Care; and if the God Your Sire, and you, resolve on Foreign Blood: Know all are Foreign, in a larger Sense, Not born your Subjects, or deriv'd from hence. Then if the Line of Turnus you retrace;Line 520 He springs from Inachus of Argive Race. But when she saw her Reasons idly spent, And cou'd not move him from his fix'd Intent; She flew to rage; for now the Snake possess'd Her vital parts, and poison'd all her Breast;Line 525

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She raves, she runs with a distracted pace, And fills, with horrid howls, the public Place. And, as young Striplings whip the Top for sport, On the smooth Pavement of an empty Court; The wooden Engine flies and whirls about,Line 530 Admir'd, with Clamours, of the Beardless rout; They lash aloud, each other they provoke, And lend their little Souls at ev'ry stroke: Thus fares the Queen, and thus her fury blows Amidst the Crowd, and kindles as she goes.Line 535 Nor yet content, she strains her Malice more, And adds new Ills to those contriv'd before: She flies the Town, and, mixing with a throng Of madding Matrons, bears the Bride along: Wand'ring through Woods and Wilds, and devious ways,Line 540 And with these Arts the Trojan Match delays. She feign'd the Rites of Bacchus! cry'd aloud, And to the Buxom God the Virgin vow'd. Evoe, O Bacchus thus began the Song, And Evoe! answer'd all the Female Throng:Line 545 O Virgin! worthy thee alone, she cry'd; O worthy thee alone, the Crew reply'd. For thee she feeds her Hair, she leads thy Dance, And with thy winding Ivy crowns her Lance. Like fury seiz'd the rest; the progress known,Line 550 All seek the Mountains, and forsake the Town: All Clad in Skins of Beasts the Jav'lin bear, Give to the wanton Winds their flowing Hair: And shrieks and showtings rend the passive Air. The Queen, her self, inspir'd with Rage Divine,Line 555 Shook high above her head a flaming Pine: Then rowl'd her haggar'd Eyes around the throng, And sung, in Turnus Name, the Nuptial Song:

[illustration]

To Coll^l: Thomas Farrington of the Parish of S^t: James's Westminster

AE 7. l. 559

Io ye Latian Dames, if any here Hold, your unhappy Queen, Amata, dear;Line 560 If there be here, she said, who dare maintain My Right, nor think the Name of Mother vain: Unbind your Fillets, loose your flowing Hair, And Orgies, and Nocturnal Rites prepare. Amata's Breast the Fury thus invades,Line 565 And fires with Rage, amid the Silvan Shades. Then when she found her Venom spread so far, The Royal House embroil'd in Civil War: Rais'd on her dusky Wings she cleaves the Skies, And seeks the Palace where young Turnus lies▪Line 570 His Town, as Fame reports, was built of old By Danae, pregnant with Almighty Gold: Who fled her Father's Rage, and with a Train Of following Argives, thro' the stormy Main, Driv'n by the Southern Blasts, was fated here to reign.Line 575

'Twas Ardua once, now Ardea's Name it bears: Once a fair City, now consum'd with Years. Here in his lofty Palace Turnus lay, Betwixt the Confines of the Night and Day, Secure in Sleep: The Fury laid asideLine 580 Her Looks and Limbs, and with new methods try'd, The foulness of th' insernal Form to hide. Prop'd on a Staff, she takes a trembling Meen, Her Face is furrow'd, and her Front obscene: Deep dinted Wrinckles on her Cheek she draws,Line 585 Sunk are her Eyes, and toothless are her Jaws: Her hoary Hair with holy Fillets bound, Her Temples with an Olive Wreath are crown'd. Old Chalibe, who kept the sacred Fane Of Juno, now she seem'd, and thus began,Line 590 Appearng in a Dream, to rouze the careless Man.

Shall Turnus then such endless Toil sustain, In fighting Fields, and conquer Towns in vain: Win, for a Trojan Head to wear the Prize, Usurp thy Crown, enjoy thy Victories?Line 595 The Bride and Scepter which thy Blood has bought, The King transfers, and Foreign Heirs are sought: Go now, deluded Man, and seek again New Toils, new Dangers on the dusty Plain. Repel the Tuscan Foes, their City seize,Line 600 Protect the Latians in luxurious Ease. This Dream all-pow'rful Juno sends, I bear Her mighty Mandates, and her Words you hear. Haste, arm your Ardeans, issue to the Plain, With Fate to friend, assault the Trojan Train:Line 605 Their thoughtless Chiefs, their painted Ships that lye In Tyber's Mouth, with Fire and Sword destroy. The Latian King, unless he shall submit, Own his old Promise, and his new forget; Let him, in Arms, the Pow'r of Turnus prove,Line 610 And learn to fear whom he disdains to Love. For such is Heav'ns Command. The youthful Prince With Scorn reply'd, and made this bold Defence. You tell me, Mother, what I knew before, The Phrygian Fleet is landed on the Shore:Line 615 I neither fear, nor will provoke the War; My Fate is Juno's most peculiar Care. But Time has made you dote, and vainly tell Of Arms imagin'd, in your lonely Cell: Go, be the Temple and the Gods your Care,Line 620 Permit to Men the Thought of Peace and War.

These haughty Words Alecto's Rage provoke, And frighted Turnus trembled as she spoke. Her Eyes grow stiffen'd, and with Sulphur burn, Her hideous Looks, and hellish Form return:Line 625

Her curling Snakes, with Hissings fill the Place, And open all the Furies of her Face: Then, darting Fire from her malignant Eyes, She cast him backward as he strove to rise, And, ling'ring, sought to frame some new Replies.Line 630 High on her Head she rears two twisted Snakes, Her Chains she rattles, and her Whip she shakes; And churning bloody Foam, thus loudly speaks. Behold whom Time has made to dote, and tell Of Arms, imagin'd in her lonely Cell:Line 635 Behold the Fates Infernal Minister; War, Death, Destruction, in my Hand I bear.

Thus having said, her smould'ring Torch impress'd, With her full Force, she plung'd into his Breast. Aghast he wak'd, and, starting from his Bed,Line 640 Cold Sweat, in clammy Drops, his Limbs o'respread. Arms, Arms, he cries, my Sword and Shield prepare; He breaths Defiance, Blood, and Mortal War. So when with crackling Flames a Cauldron fries, The bubling Waters from the Bottom rise:Line 645 Above the Brims they force their fiery way; Black Vapours climb aloft, and cloud the Day.

The Peace polluted thus, a chosen Band He first commissions to the Latian Land; In threatning Embassy: Then rais'd the rest,Line 650 To meet in Arms th' intruding Trojan Guest: To force the Foes from the Lavinian Shore, And Italy's indanger'd Peace restore. Himself alone, an equal Match he boasts, To fight the Phrygian and Ausonian Hoasts.Line 655 The Gods invok'd, the Rutuli prepare Their Arms, and warm each other to the War. His Beauty these, and those his blooming Age, The rest his House, and his own Fame ingage.

While Turnus urges thus his Enterprise;Line 660 The Stygian Fury to the Trojans flies: New Frauds invents, and takes a steepy Stand, Which overlooks the Vale with wide Command; Where fair Ascanius, and his youthful Train, With Horns and Hounds a hunting Match ordain,Line 665 And pitch their Toils around the shady Plain. The Fury fires the Pack; they snuff, they vent, And fill their hungry Nostrils with the Scent. 'Twas of a well grown Stag, whose Antlers rise High o're his Front, his Beams invade the Skies:Line 670 From this light Cause, th' Infernal Maid prepares The Country Churls to Mischief, Hate, and Wars.

The stately Beast, the Two Tyrrheidae bred, Snatch'd from his Dam, and the tame Youngling fed. Their Father Tyrrheus did his Fodder bring,Line 675 Tyrrheus, chief Ranger to the Latian King: Their Sister Silvia cherish'd with her Care The little Wanton, and did Wreaths prepare To hang his budding Horns: with Ribbons ty'd His tender Neck, and comb'd his silken Hide;Line 680 And bath'd his Body. Patient of Command, In time he grew, and growing us'd to Hand. He waited at his Master's Board for Food; Then sought his salvage Kindred in the Wood: Where grazing all the Day, at Night he cameLine 685 To his known Lodgings, and his Country Dame.

This household Beast, that us'd the Woodland Grounds, Was view'd at first by the young Hero's Hounds; As down the Stream he swam, to seek Retreat In the cool Waters, and to quench his Heat.Line 690 Ascanius young, and eager of his Game, Soon bent his Bow, uncertain in his Aim:

[illustration]

To y^e Right Hon^ble: y^e Lady Mary Sackvile daughter to Charles Earle of Dorset & Middlesex

AE. 7. l. 675.

But the dire Fiend the fatal Arrow guides, Which pierc'd his Bowels thro' his panting sides. The bleeding Creature issues from the Floods,Line 695 Possess'd with Fear, and seeks his known abodes; His old familiar Hearth, and household Gods. He falls, he fills the House with heavy Groans, Implores their Pity, and his Pain bemoans. Young Silvia beats her Breast, and cries aloudLine 700 For Succour, from the clownish Neighbourhood: The Churls assemble; for the Fiend, who lay In the close Woody Covert, urg'd their way. One with a Brand, yet burning from the Flame; Arm'd with a knotty Club, another came:Line 705 What e're they catch or find, without their Care, Their Fury makes an Instrument of War. Tyrrheus, the Foster-Father of the Beast, Then clench'd a Hatchet in his horny Fist: But held his Hand from the descending Stroke,Line 710 And left his Wedge within the cloven Oak, To whet their Courage, and their Rage provoke. And now the Goddess, exercis'd in Ill, Who watch'd an Hour to work her impious Will, Ascends the Roof, and to her crooked Horn,Line 715 Such as was then by Latian Shepherds born, Adds all her Breath, the Rocks and Woods around, And Mountains, tremble at th' infernal Sound. The Sacred Lake of Trivia from afar, The Veline Fountains, and sulphureous Nar,Line 720 Shake at the baleful Blast, the Signal of the War. Young Mothers wildly stare, with Fear possess'd, And strain their helpless Infants to their Breast.

The Clowns, a boist'rous, rude, ungovern'd Crew, With furious haste to the loud Summons flew.Line 725

The Pow'rs of Troy then issuing on the Plain, With fresh Recruits their youthful Chief sustain: Not theirs a raw and unexperienc'd Train, But a firm Body of embattel'd Men. At first, while Fortune favour'd neither side,Line 730 The Fight with Clubs and burning Brands was try'd: But now, both Parties reinfor'd, the Fields Are bright with flaming Swords and brazen Shields. A shining Harvest either Host displays, And shoots against the Sun with equal Rays.Line 735

Thus when a black-brow'd Gust begins to rise, White Foam at first on the curl'd Ocean fries; Then roars the Main, the Billows mount the Skies: 'Till by the Fury of the Storm full blown, The muddy Bottom o're the Clouds is thrown.Line 740

First Almon falls, old Tyrrheus eldest Care, Pierc'd with an Arrow from the distant War: Fix'd in his Throat the flying Weapon stood, And stop'd his Breath, and drank his vital Blood. Huge Heaps of slain above the Body rise;Line 745 Among the rest, the rich Galesus lyes: A good old Man, while Peace he preach'd in vain, Amidst the Madness of th' unruly Train. Five Heards, five bleating Flocks his Pastures fill'd, His Lands a hundred Yoke of Oxen till'd.Line 750 Thus, while in equal Scales their Fortune stood, The Fury bath'd them in each others Blood. Then having fix'd the Fight, exulting flies, And bears fulfill'd her Promise to the Skies. To Juno thus she speaks; Behold, 'tis done,Line 755 The Blood already drawn, the War begun; The Discord is compleat, nor can they cease The dire Debate, nor you command the Peace.

Now since the Latian and the Trojan Brood Have tasted Vengeance, and the Sweets of Blood;Line 760 Speak, and my Pow'r shall add this Office more: The Neighb'ring Nations of th' Ausonian Shore Shall hear the dreadful Rumour, from afar, Of arm'd Invasion, and embrace the War. Then Juno thus; The grateful Work is done,Line 765 The Seeds of Discord sow'd, the War begun: Frauds, Fears, and Fury have possess'd the State, And fix'd the Causes of a lasting Hate: A bloody Hymen shall th' Alliance join Betwixt the Trojan and Ausonian Line:Line 770 But thou with Speed to Night and Hell repair, For not the Gods, nor angry Jove will bear Thy lawless wand'ring walks, in upper Air. Leave what remains to me. Saturnia said: The sullen Fiend her sounding Wings display'd;Line 775 Unwilling left the Light, and sought the neather Shade.

In midst of Italy, well known to Fame, There lies a Lake, Amsanctus is the Name, Below the lofty Mounts: On either side Thick Forrests, the forbidden Entrance hide:Line 780 Full in the Centre of the sacred Wood An Arm arises of the Stygian Flood; Which, breaking from beneath with bellowing sound, Whirls the black Waves and rattling Stones around. Here Pluto pants for Breath from out his Cell,Line 785 And opens wide the grinning Jaws of Hell. To this Infernal Lake the Fury flies; Here hides her hated Head, and frees the lab'ring Skies. Saturnian Juna now, with double Care, Attends the fatal Process of the War.Line 790 The Clowns return'd, from Battel bear the slain, Implore the Gods, and to their King complain.

The Corps of Almon and the rest are shown, Shrieks, Clamours, Murmurs fill the frighted Town. Ambitious Turnus in the Press appears,Line 795 And, aggravating Crimes, augments their Fears: Proclaims his Private Injuries aloud, A Solemn Promise made, and disavow'd; A foreign Son is sought, and a mix'd Mungril Brood. Then they, whose Mothers, frantick with their Fear,Line 800 In Woods and Wilds the Flags of Bacchus bear, And lead his Dances with dishevell'd hair, Increase the Clamour, and the War demand, (Such was Amata's Interest in the Land) Against the Public Sanctions of the Peace,Line 805 Against all Omens of their ill Success; With Fates averse, the Rout in Arms resort, To Force their Monarch, and insult the Court. But like a Rock unmov'd, a Rock that braves The rageing Tempest and the rising Waves,Line 810 Prop'd on himself he stands: His solid sides Wash off the Sea-weeds, and the sounding Tides: So stood the Pious Prince unmov'd: and long Sustain'd the madness of the noisie Throng. But when he found that Juno's Pow'r prevail'd,Line 815 And all the Methods of cool Counsel sail'd, He calls the Gods to witness their offence, Disclaims the War, asserts his Innocence. Hurry'd by Fate, he cries, and born before A furious Wind, we leave the faithful Shore:Line 820 O more than Madmen! you your selves shall bear The guilt of Blood and Sacrilegious War: Thou, Turnus, shalt attone it by thy Fate, And pray to Heav'n for Peace, but pray too late. For me, my stormy Voyage at an end,Line 825 I to the Port of Death securely tend.

The Fun'ral Pomp which to your Kings you pay, Is all I want, and all you take away. He said no more, but in his Walls confin'd, Shut out the Woes which he too well divin'd:Line 830 Nor with the rising Storm wou'd vainly strive, But left the Helm, and let the Vessel drive. A solemn Custom was observ'd of old, Which Latium held, and now the Romans hold; Their Standard, when in fighting Fields they rearLine 835 Against the fierce Hircanians, or declare The Scythian, Indian, or Arabian War: Or from the boasting Parthians wou'd regain Their Eagles lost in Carrhae's bloody Plain: Two Gates of Steel (the Name of Mars they bear)Line 840 And still are worship'd with religious Fear; Before his Temple stand: The dire abode, And the fear'd Issues of the furious God, Are fenc'd with Brazen Bolts; without the Gates, The wary Guardian Janus doubly waits.Line 845 Then, when the sacred Senate votes the Wars, The Roman Consul their Decree declares, And in his Robes the sounding Gates unbars. The Youth in Military Shouts arise, And the loud Trumpets break the yielding Skies.Line 850 These Rites of old by Sov'raign Princes us'd, Were the King's Office, but the King refus'd. Deaf to their Cries, nor wou'd the Gates unbar Of sacred Peace, or loose th' imprison'd War: But hid his Head, and, safe from loud Alarms,Line 855 Abhor'd the wicked Ministry of Arms. Then Heav'ns Imperious Queen came down from high; At her Approach the Brazen Hinges fly, The Gates are forc'd, and ev'ry falling Bar, And like a Tempest issues out the War.Line 860

The peaceful Cities of th' Ausonian Shore, Lull'd in their Ease, and undisturb'd before; Are all on Fire, and some with studious Care, Their restiff Steeds in sandy Plains prepare: Some their soft Limbs in painful Marches try,Line 865 And War is all their Wish, and Arms the gen'ral Cry. Part scour the rusty Shields with Seam, and part New grind the blunted Ax, and point the Dart: With Joy they view the waving Ensigns fly, And hear the Trumpet's Clangor pierce the Sky.Line 870 Five Cities forge their Arms; th' Atinian Pow'rs, Antemnae, Tybur with her lofty Tow'rs, Ardea the proud, the Crustumerian Town: All these of old were places of Renown. Some hammer Helmets for the fighting Field,Line 875 Some twine young Sallows to support the Shield; The Croslet some, and some the Cuishes mould, With Silver plated, and with ductile Gold. The rustick Honours of the Scythe and Share, Give place to Swords and Plumes, the Pride of War.Line 880 Old Fauchions are new temper'd in the Fires: The sounding Trumpet ev'ry Soul inspires. The Word is giv'n, with eager Speed they lace The shining Head-piece, and the Shield embrace. The neighing Steeds are to the Chariot ty'd,Line 885 The trusty Weapon sits on ev'ry side.

And now the mighty Labour is begun, Ye Muses open all your Helicon. Sing you the Chiefs that sway'd th' Ausonian Land, Their Arms, and Armies under their Command:Line 890 What Warriours in our ancient Clime were bred, What Souldiers follow'd, and what Heroes led. For well you know, and can record alone, What Fame to future times conveys but darkly down.

Mezentius first appear'd upon the Plain,Line 895 Scorn fate upon his Brows, and sour Disdain; Defying Earth and Heav'n: Etruria lost, He brings to Turnus's Aid his baffled Host. The charming Lausus, full of youthful Fire, Rode in the Rank, and next his sullen Sire:Line 900 To Turnus only second in the Grace Of Manly Meen, and features of the Face. A skilful Horseman, and a Huntsman bred, With Fates averse a thousand Men he led: His Sire unworthy of so brave a Son;Line 905 Himself well worthy of a happier Throne.

Next Aventinus drives his Chariot round The Latian Plains, with Palms and Lawrels crown'd. Proud of his Steeds he smoaks along the Field, His Father's Hydra fills his ample Shield.Line 910 A hundred Serpents hiss about the Brims; The Son of Hercules he justly seems, By his broad Shoulders and Gigantick Limbs. Of Heav'nly part, and part of Earthly Blood, A mortal Woman mixing with a God.Line 915 For strong Alcides, after he had slain The triple Geryon, drove from conquer'd Spain His captive Herds, and thence in Triumph led; On Tuscan Tyber's flow'ry Banks they fed. Then on Mount Aventine, the Son of JoveLine 920 The Priestess Rhea found, and forc'd to Love.

For Arms his Men long Piles and Jav'lins bore, And Poles with pointed Steel their Foes in Battel gore. Like Hercules himself, his Son appears, In Salvage Pomp a Lyon's Hide he wears;Line 925 About his Shoulders hangs the shaggy Skin, The Teeth, and gaping Jaws severely grin.

Thus like the God his Father, homely drest, He strides into the Hall, a horrid Guest.

Then two Twin-Brothers from fair Tybur came,Line 930 (Which from their Brother Tyburs took the Name,) Fierce Coras, and Catillus, void of Fear, Arm'd Argive Horse they led, and in the Front appear. Like Cloud-born Centaurs, from the Mountain's height, With rapid Course descending to the Fight;Line 935 They rush along, the ratling Woods give way, The Branches bend before their sweepy Sway.

Nor was Praeneste's Founder wanting there, Whom Fame reports the Son of Mulciber: Found in the Fire, and foster'd in the Plains;Line 940 A Shepherd and a King at once he reigns, And leads to Turnus Aid his Country Swains. His own Praeneste sends a chosen Band, With those who plough Saturnia's Gabine Land: Besides the Succour which cold Anien yields,Line 945 The Rocks of Hernicus, and rosie Fields; Anagnia fat, and Father Amasene, A num'rous Rout, but all of naked Men: Nor Arms they wear, nor Swords and Bucklers wield, Nor drive the Chariot thro' the dusty Field:Line 950 But whirle from Leathern Slings huge Balls of Lead; And Spoils of yellow Wolves adorn their Head: The Left Foot naked, when they march to fight, But in a Bull's raw Hide they sheath the Right.

Messapus next, (great Neptune was his Sire)Line 955 Secure of Steel, and fated from the Fire; In Pomp appears: And with his Ardour warms A heartless Train, unexercis'd in Arms: The just Faliscans he to Battel brings, And those who live where Lake Ciminia springs;Line 960

And where Feronia's Grove and Temple stands, Who till Fescennian or Flavinian Lands: All these in order march, and marching sing The warlike Actions of their Sea-born King. Like a long Team of Snowy Swans on high,Line 965 Which clap their Wings, and cleave the liquid Sky, When homeward from their wat'ry Pastures born, They sing, and Asia's Lakes their Notes return. Not one who heard their Musick from afar, Wou'd think these Troops an Army train'd to War:Line 970 But Flocks of Fowl, that when the Tempests roar, With their hoarse gabling seek the silent Shoar.

Then Clausus came, who led a num'rous Band Of Troops embody'd, from the Sabine Land: And in himself alone, an Army brought,Line 975 'Twas he the noble Claudian Race begot: The Claudian Race, ordain'd, in times to come, To share the Greatness of Imperial Rome. He led the Cures forth of old Renown, Mutuscans from their Olive-bearing Town;Line 980 And all th' Eretian Pow'rs: Besides a Band That follow'd from Velinum's dewy Land: And Amiternian Troops, of mighty Fame, And Mountaineers, that from Severus came. And from the craggy Cliffs of Tetrica,Line 985 And those where yellow Tyber takes his way, And where Himella's wanton Waters play. Casperia sends her Arms, with those that lye By Fabaris, and fruitful Foruli: The warlike Aids of Horta next appear,Line 990 And the cold Nursians come to close the Reer: Mix'd with the Natives born of Latine Blood, Whom Allia washes with her fatal Flood.

Not thicker Billows beat the Lybian Main, When pale Orion sets in wint'ry Rain;Line 995 Not thicker Harvests on rich Hermus rise, Or Lycian Fields, when Phoebus burns the Skies; Than stand these Troops: Their Bucklers ring around, Their Trampling turns the Turf, and shakes the solid Ground.

High in his Chariot then Halesus came,Line 1000 A Foe by Birth to Troy's unhappy Name: From Agamemnon born; to Turnus Aid, A thousand Men the youthful Heroe led; Who till the Massick Soil, for Wine renown'd, And fierce Auruncans from their Hilly Ground:Line 1005 And those who live by Sidicinian Shores, And where, with shoaly Foords Vulturnus roars; Cales and Osca's old Inhabitants, And rough Saticulans inur'd to Wants: Light demi-Launces from afar they throw,Line 1010 Fasten'd with Leathern Thongs to gaul the Foe. Short crooked Swords in closer Fight they wear, And on their warding Arm light Bucklers bear.

Nor Oebalus, shalt thou be left unsung, From Nymph Semethis and old Telon sprung:Line 1015 Who then in Teleboan Capri reign'd, But that short Isle th' ambitious Youth disdain'd; And o're Campagnia stretch'd his ample Sway; Where swelling Sarnus seeks the Tyrrhene Sea: O're Batulum, and where Abella sees,Line 1020 From her high Tow'rs, the Harvest of her Trees. All these (as was the Teuton use of old) Wield Brazen Swords, and Brazen Bucklers hold: Sling weighty Stones when from afar they fight; Their Casques are Cork, a Covering thick and light.Line 1025 Next these in Rank, the warlike Ufens went, And led the Mountain Troops that Nursia sent.

The rude Equicolae his Rule obey'd, Hunting their Sport, and Plund'ring was their Trade. In Arms they plough'd, to Battel still prepar'd;Line 1030 Their Soil was barren, and their Hearts were hard.

Umbro the Priest the proud Marrubians led, By King Archippus sent to Turnus aid; And peaceful Olives crown'd his hoary head. His Wand and holy Words, the Viper's rage,Line 1035 And venom'd wounds of Serpents, cou'd asswage. He, when he pleas'd with powerful Juice to steep Their Temples, shut their Eyes in pleasing Sleep. But vain were Marsian Herbs, and Magick Art, To cure the Wound giv'n by the Dardan Dart.Line 1040 Yet his untimely Fate, th' Angitian Woods In sighs remurmur'd, to the Fucine Floods. The Son of fam'd Hippolitus was there; Fam'd as his Sire, and as his Mother fair. Whom in Egerian Groves Aricia bore,Line 1045 And nurs'd his Youth along the Marshy Shore: Where great Diana's peaceful Altars flame, In fruitful Fields, and Virbius was his Name. Hippolitus, as old Records have said, Was by his Stepdam sought to share her Bed:Line 1050 But when no Female Arts his Mind cou'd move, She turn'd to furious Hate her impious Love. Torn by Wild Horses on the sandy Shore, Another's Crimes th' unhappy Hunter bore; Glutting his Father's Eyes with guiltless gore.Line 1055 But chast Diana, who his death deplor'd, With Aesculapian Herbs his life restor'd. Then Jove, who saw from high, with just disdain, The dead inspir'd with Vital Breath again, Struck to the Center with his flaming DartLine 1060 Th' unhappy Founder of the Godlike Art.

But Trivia kept in secret Shades alone, Her care, Hippolitus, to Fate unknown; And call'd him Virbius in th' Egerian Grove: Where then he liv'd obscure, but safe from Jove.Line 1065 For this, from Trivia's Temple and her Wood, Are Coursers driv'n, who shed their Master's Blood; Affrighted by the Monsters of the Flood. His Son, the Second Virbius, yet retain'd His Fathers Art, and Warrior Steeds he rein'd.Line 1070 Amid the Troops, and like the leading God, High o're the rest in Arms the Graceful Turnus rode: A triple Pile of Plumes his Crest adorn'd, On which with belching Flames Chimaera burn'd: The more the Winds his kindled Course inspire,Line 1075 The more with fury burn'd the blazing Fire. Fair Io grac'd his Shield, but Io now With Horns exalted stands, and seems to lowe: (A noble charge) her Keeper by her side, To watch her Walks his hundred Eyes apply'd.Line 1080 And on the Brims her Sire, the wat'ry God, Rowl'd from a Silver Urn his Crystal Flood. A Cloud of Foot succeeds, and fills the Fields With Swords and pointed Spears, and clatt'ring Shields; Of Argives, and of old Sicanian Bands,Line 1085 And those who Plow the rich Sutulian Lands; Auruncan Youth and those Sacrana yieids, And the proud Labicans with painted Shields. And those who near Numician Streams reside, And those whom Tyber's holy Forests hide;Line 1090 Or Circes Hills from the main Land divide. Where Ufens glides along the lowly Lands, Or the black Water of Pomptina stands. Last from the Volscians fair Camilla came; And led her warlike Troops, a Warriour Dame:Line 1095

[illustration]

To Charles Fox of y^e Parish of S^t: Martins in y^e Fields Esq^r.

AE. 7. l. 1075.

Unbred to Spinning, in the Loom unskill'd, She chose the nobler Pallas of the Field. Mix'd with the first, the fierce Virago fought, Sustain'd the Toils of Arms, the Danger sought: Outstrip'd the Winds in speed upon the Plain,Line 1200 Flew o're the Fields, nor hurt the bearded Grain: She swept the Seas, and as she skim'd along, Her flying Feet unbath'd on Billows hung. Men, Boys, and Women stupid with Surprise, Where e're she passes, fix their wond'ring Eyes:Line 1205 Longing they look, and gaping at the Sight, Devour her o're and o're with vast Delight. Her Purple Habit sits with such a Grace On her smooth Shoulders, and so suits her Face: Her Head with Ringlets of her Hair is crown'd,Line 1210 And in a Golden Caul the Curls are bound. She shakes her Myrtle Jav'lin: And, behind, Her Lycian Quiver dances in the Wind.

The Eighth Book of the Aeneis.

The Argument.

The War being now begun, both the Generals make all possible Pre∣parations. Tumus sends to Diomedes. Aeneas goes in Person to beg Succours from Evander and the Tuscans. Evander re∣ceives him kindly, furnishes him with Men, and sends his Son Pallas with him. Vulcan, at the Request of Venus, makes Arms for her Son Aeneas, and draws on his Shield the most memo∣rable Actions of his Posterity.

WHen Turnus had assembled all his Pow'rs; His Standard planted on Laurentum's Tow'rs; When now the sprightly Trumpet, from afar, Had giv'n the Signal of approaching War, Had rouz'd the neighing Steeds to scour the Fields,Line 5 While the fierce Riders clatter'd on their Shields, Trembling with Rage, the Latian Youth prepare To join th' Allies, and headlong rush to War. Fierce Ufens, and Messapus, led the Crowd; With bold Mezentius, who blasphem'd aloud.Line 10 These, thro the Country took their wastful Course; The Fields to forage, and to gather Force. Then Venulus to Diomede they send, To beg his Aid Ausonia to defend: Declare the common Danger; and informLine 15 The Grecian Leader of the growing Storm: Aeneas landed on the Latian Coast, With banish'd Gods, and with a baffled Hoast; Yet now aspir'd to Conquest of the State; And claim'd a Title from the Gods and Fate. What num'rous Nations in his Quarrel came,Line 20 And how they spread his formidable Name:

[illustration]

To y^e Right Hon^ble. Tho Earle of Ailesbury & Elgin Viscount Bruce of Ampthill Baron Bruce of Whorleton Shelton and Kinloss &^ct.

AE. 8. l. 2.

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What he design'd, what Mischiefs might arise, If Fortune favour'd his first Enterprise, Was left for him to weigh: whose equal Fears,Line 25 And common Interest was involv'd in theirs. While Turnus and th' Allies thus urge the War, The Trojan floating in a Flood of Care, Beholds the Tempest which his Foes prepare. This way and that he turns his anxious Mind;Line 30 Thinks, and rejects the Counsels he design'd. Explores himself in vain, in ev'ry part, And gives no rest to his distracted Heart.

So when the Sun by Day, or Moon by Night, Strike, on the polish'd Brass, their trembling Light,Line 35 The glitt'ring Species here and there divide; And cast their dubious Beams from side to side: Now on the Walls, now on the Pavement play, And to the Cieling flash the glaring Day. 'Twas Night: And weary Nature lul'd asleepLine 40 The Birds of Air, and Fishes of the Deep; And Beasts, and Mortal Men: The Trojan Chief Was laid on Tyber's Banks, oppress'd with Grief, And found in silent Slumber late Relief. Then, thro' the Shadows of the Poplar Wood,Line 45 Arose the Father of the Roman Flood; An Azure Robe was o're his Body spread, A Wreath of shady Reeds adorn'd his Head: Thus, manifest to Sight, the God appear'd▪ And with these pleasing Words his Sorrow chear'd.Line 50 Undoubted Off-spring of Etherial Race, O long expected in this promis'd Place, Who, thro the Foes, hast born thy banish'd Gods, Restor'd them to their Hearths, and old Abodes; This is thy happy Home! The Clime where FateLine 55 Ordains thee to restore the Trojan State.

Fear not, the War shall end in lasting Peace; And all the Rage of haughty Juno cease.

And that this nightly Vision may not seem Th' Effect of Fancy, or an idle Dream,Line 60 A Sow beneath an Oak shall lye along; All white her self, and white her thirty Young. When thirty rowling Years have run their Race, Thy Son, Ascanius, on this empty Space, Shall build a Royal Town, of lasting Fame;Line 65 Which from this Omen shall receive the Name. Time shall approve the Truth: For what remains, And how with sure Success to crown thy Pains, With Patience next attend. A banish'd Band, Driv'n with Evander from th' Arcadian Land,Line 70 Have planted here: and plac'd on high their Walls; Their Town the Founder, Palanteum calls: Deriv'd from Pallas, his great Grandsire's Name: But the fierce Latians old Possession claim: With War infesting the new Colony;Line 75 These make thy Friends, and on their Aid rely. To thy free Passage I submit my Streams: Wake Son of Venus from thy pleasing Dreams; And, when the setting Stars are lost in Day, To Juno's Pow'r thy just Devotion pay.Line 80 With Sacrifice the wrathful Queen appease; Her Pride at length shall fall, her Fury cease. When thou return'st victorious from the War, Perform thy Vows to me with grateful Care. The God am I, whose yellow Water flowsLine 85 Around these Fields, and fattens as it goes: Tyber my Name: among the rowling Floods, Renown'd on Earth, esteem'd among the Gods. This is my certain Seat: In Times to come, My Waves shall wash the Walls of mighty Rome.Line 90

He said; and plung'd below, while yet he spoke: His Dream Aeneas and his Sleep forsook. He rose, and looking up, beheld the Skies With Purple blushing, and the Day arise. Then, Water in his hollow Palm he took,Line 95 From Tyber's Flood; and thus the Pow'rs bespoke. Laurentian Nymphs, by whom the Streams are fed, And Father Tyber, in thy sacred Bed Receive Aeneas; and from Danger keep. Whatever Fount, whatever holy deep,Line 100 Conceals thy wat'ry Stores; where e're they rise, And, bubling from below, salute the Skies: Thou King of horned Floods, whose plenteous Urn Suffices Fatness to the fruitful Corn, For this thy kind Compassion of our Woes,Line 105 Shalt share my Morning Song, and Ev'ning Vows. But, oh! be present to thy Peoples Aid; And firm the gracious Promise thou hast made. Thus having said, two Gallies, from his Stores, With Care he chuses; Mans, and fits with Oars.Line 110 Now on the Shore the fatal Swine is found: Wond'rous to tell; she lay along the Ground: Her well fed Offspring at her Udders hung; She white her self, and white her thirty young. Aeneas takes the Mother, and her Brood,Line 115 And all on Juno's Altar are bestow'd. The foll'wing Night, and the succeeding Day, Propitious Tyber smooth'd his wat'ry Way: He rowld his River back; and pois'd he stood; A gentle Swelling, and a peaceful Flood.Line 120 The Trojans mount their Ships; they put from Shore, Born on the Waves, and scarcely dip an Oar. Shouts from the Land give Omen to their Course; And the pitch'd Vessels glide with easie Force. Line 125

The Woods and Waters, wonder at the GleamLine 125 Of Shields, and painted Ships, that stem the Stream. One Summer's Night, and one whole Day they pass, Betwixt the green-wood Shades; and cut the liquid Glass. The fiery Sun had finish'd half his Race; Look'd back, and doubted in the middle Space:Line 130 When they from far beheld the rising Tow'rs, The Tops of Sheds, and Shepherds lowly Bow'rs: Thin as they stood, which, then of homely Clay, Now rise in Marble, from the Roman Sway. These Cots, (Evander's Kingdom, mean and poor)Line 135 The Trojan saw; and turn'd his Ships to Shore. 'Twas on a solemn Day: Th' Arcadian States, The King and Prince without the City Gates, Then paid their Off'rings in a sacred Grove, To Hercules, the Warrior Son of Jove.Line 140 Thick Clouds of rowling Smoke involve the Sky: And Fat of Entrails on his Altar fry.

But when they saw the Ships that stemm'd the Flood, And glitter'd thro' the Covert of the Wood, They rose with Fear; and left th' unfinish'd Feast:Line 145 'Till dauntless Pallas reassur'd the rest, To pay the Rites. Himself without delay A Jav'lin seiz'd, and singly took his Way. Then gain'd a rising Ground; and call'd from far. Resolve me, Strangers, whence, and what you are;Line 150 Your Buis'ness here; and bring you Peace or War? High on the Stern, Aeneas took his Stand, And held a Branch of Olive in his Hand; While thus he spoke. The Phrygians Arms you see; Expell'd from Troy, provok'd in ItalyLine 155 By Latian Foes, with War unjustly made: At first affianc'd, and at last betray'd.

This Message bear: The Trojans and their Chief Bring holy Peace; and beg the King's Relief. Struck with so great a Name, and all on fire,Line 160 The Youth Replies, Whatever you require, Your Fame exacts: Upon our Shores descend, A welcome Guest, and what you wish, a Friend. He said; and downward hasting to the Strand, Embrac'd the Stranger Prince, and join'd his Hand.Line 165 Conducted to the Grove, Aeneas broke The silence first, and thus the King bespoke. Best of the Greeks, to whom, by Fates Command, I bear these peaceful Branches in my hand; Undaunted I approach you; though I knowLine 170 Your Birth is Grecian, and your Land my Foe: From Atreus tho' your ancient Lineage came; And both the Brother Kings your Kindred claim: Yet, my self-conscious Worth, your high Renown, Your Vertue, through the Neighb'ring Nations blown,Line 175 Our Fathers mingl'd Blood, Apollo's Voice, Have led me hether, less by Need than Choice. Our Founder Dardanus, as Fame has sung, And Greeks acknowledge, from Electra sprung: Electra from the Loins of Atlas came;Line 180 Atlas whose Head sustains the Starry Frame. Your Sire is Mercury; whom long before On cold Cyllene's top fair Maja bore. Maja the fair, on Fame if we rely, Was Atlas Daughter, who sustains the Sky.Line 185 Thus from one common Source our Streams divide: Ours is the Trojan, yours th' Arcadian side. Rais'd by these Hopes, I sent no News before: Nor ask'd your leave, nor did your Faith implore; But come, without a Pledg, my own Ambassador.Line 190

The same Rutulians, who with Arms pursue The Trojan Race, are equal Foes to you. Our Host expell'd, what farther Force can stay The Victor Troops from Universal Sway? Then will they stretch their Pow'r athwart the Land;Line 195 And either Sea from side to side command. Receive our offer'd Faith: and give us thine; Ours is a gen'rous, and experienc'd Line: We want not Hearts, nor Bodies for the War; In Council cautious, and in Fields we dare.Line 200 He said; and while he spoke, with piercing Eyes, Evander view'd the Man with vast surprize. Pleas'd with his Action, ravish'd with his Face, Then answer'd briefly, with a Royal grace. O Valiant Leader of the Trojan Line,Line 205 In whom the Features of thy Father shine; How I recall Anchises, how I see His Motions, Meen, and all my Friend in thee! Long tho it be, 'tis fresh within my Mind, When Priam, to his Sister's Court design'dLine 210 A welcome Visit, with a friendly stay; And, through th' Arcadian Kingdom took his way. Then, past a Boy, the callow Down began To shade my Chin, and call me first a Man. I saw the shining Train, with vast delight,Line 215 And Priam's goodly Person pleas'd my sight: But great Anchises, far above the rest, With awful Wonder fir'd my Youthful Breast. I long'd to join, in Friendship's holy Bands, Our mutual Hearts, and plight our mutual Hands.Line 220 I first accosted him: I su'd, I sought, And, with a loving force, to Pheneus brought. He gave me, when at length constrain'd to go, A Lycian Quiver, and a Gnossian Bow: Line 225

A Vest embroyder'd, glorious to behold,Line 225 And two rich Bridles, with their Bits of Gold, Which my Son's Coursers in obedience hold. The League you ask I offer, as your Right: And when to Morrow's Sun reveals the Light, With swift Supplies you shall be sent away:Line 230 Now celebrate, with us, this solemn Day; Whose Holy Rites admit no long Delay. Honour our Annual Feast; and take your Seat With friendly Welcome, at a homely Treat. Thus having said, the Bowls (remov'd for Fear)Line 235 The Youths replac'd; and soon restor'd the Chear. On sods of Turf he set the Souldiers round; A Maple Throne, rais'd higher from the Ground, Receiv'd the Trojan Chief: And o're the Bed, A Lyon's shaggy Hide for Ornament they spread.Line 240 The Loaves were serv'd in Canisters; the Wine In Bowls, the Priest renew'd the Rites Divine: Broil'd Entrails are their Food; and Beefs continu'd Chine. But, when the Rage of Hunger was repress'd, Thus spoke Evander to his Royal Guest.Line 245 These Rites, these Altars, and this Feast, O King, From no vain Fears, or Superstition spring: Or blind Devotion, or from blinder Chance; Or heady Zeal, or brutal Ignorance: But, sav'd from Danger, with a grateful Sence,Line 250 The Labours of a God we recompence. See, from afar, yon Rock that mates the Sky; About whose Feet such Heaps of Rubbish lye: Such indigested Ruin; bleak and bare, How desart now it stands, expos'd in Air!Line 255 'Twas once a Robber's Den; inclos'd around With living Stone, and deep beneath the Ground.

The Monster Cacus, more than half a Beast, This Hold, impervious to the Sun, possess'd. The Pavement ever foul with Human Gore;Line 265 Heads, and their mangled Members, hung the Door. Vulcan this Plague begot: And, like his Sire, Black Clouds he belch'd, and flakes of livid Fire. Time, long expected, eas'd us of our Load: And brought the needful Presence of a God.Line 270 Th' avenging Force of Hercules, from Spain, Arriv'd in Triumph, from Geryon slain; Thrice liv'd the Gyant, and thrice liv'd in vain. His Prize, the lowing Herds, Alcides drove Near Tyber's Bank, to graze the shady Grove.Line 275 Allur'd with Hope of Plunder, and intent By Force to rob, by Fraud to circumvent; The brutal Cacus, as by Chance they stray'd, Four Oxen thence, and four fair Kine convey'd. And, lest the printed Footsteps might be seen,Line 280 He drag'd 'em backwards to his rocky Den. The Tracks averse, a lying Notice gave; And led the Searcher backward from the Cave. Mean time the Herdsman Heroe shifts his place: To find fresh Pasture, and untrodden Grass.Line 285 The Beasts, who miss'd their Mates, fill'd all around With Bellowings, and the Rocks restor'd the Sound. One Heifar who had heard her Love complain, Roar'd from the Cave; and made the Project vain. Alcides found the Fraud: With Rage he shook,Line 290 And toss'd about his Head his knotted Oak. Swift as the Winds, or Scythian Arrows flight, He clomb, with eager haste, th' Aerial height. Then first we saw the Monster mend his Pace: Fear in his Eyes, and Paleness in his Face,Line 295

Confess'd the Gods approach: Trembling he springs, As Terror had increas'd his Feet with Wings: Nor stay'd for Stairs; but down the Depth he threw His Body; on his Back the Door he drew. The Door, a Rib of living Rock; with PainsLine 300 His Father hew'd it out, and bound with Iron Chains. He broke the heavy Lincks; the Mountain clos'd; And Bars and Leavers to his Foe oppos'd. The Wretch had hardly made his Dungeon fast; The fierce Avenger came with bounding haste:Line 305 Survey'd the Mouth of the forbidden hold; And here and there his raging Eyes he rowl'd. He gnash'd his Teeth; and thrice he compass'd round With winged speed the Circuit of the Ground. Thrice at the Cavern's Mouth he pull'd in vain,Line 310 And, panting, thrice desisted from his Pain. A pointed flinty Rock, all bare, and black, Grew gibbous from behind the Mountains Back: Owls, Ravens, all ill Omens of the Night, Here built their Nests, and hether wing'd their Flight.Line 315 The leaning Head hung threat'ning o're the Flood: And nodded to the left: The Heroe stood Adverse, with planted Feet, and from the right, Tugg'd at the solid Stone with all his might. Thus heav'd, the fix'd Foundations of the RockLine 320 Gave way: Heav'n echo'd at the ratling Shock. Tumbling it choak'd the Flood: On either side The Banks leap backward; and the Streams divide. The Sky shrunk upward with unusual Dread: And trembling Tyber div'd beneath his Bed.Line 325 The Court of Cacus stands reveal'd to sight; The Cavern glares with new admitted Light. So the pent Vapours with a rumbling Sound Heave from below; and rend the hollow Ground: Line 330

A sounding Flaw succeeds: And from on high,Line 330 The Gods, with Hate beheld the neather Sky: The Ghosts repine at violated Night; And curse th' invading Sun; and sicken at the sight. The graceless Monster caught in open Day, Inclos'd, and in Despair to fly away;Line 335 Howls horrible from underneath, and fills His hollow Palace, with unmanly Yells. The Heroe stands above; and from afar Plies him with Darts, and Stones, and distant War. He, from his Nostrils, and huge Mouth, expiresLine 340 Black Clouds of Smoke, amidst his Father's Fires. Gath'ring, with each repeated Blast, the Night: To make uncertain Aim, and erring Sight. The wrathful God, then plunges from above, And where in thickest Waves the Sparkles drove,Line 345 There lights; and wades thro Fumes, and gropes his Way; Half sing'd, half stifled, 'till he grasps his Prey. The Monster, spewing fruitless Flames, he found; He squeez'd his Throat, he writh'd his Neck around, And in a Knot his cripled Members bound.Line 350 Then, from their Sockets, tore his burning Eyes; Rowld on a heap the breathless Robber lyes. The Doors, unbarr'd, receive the rushing Day; And thorough Lights disclose the ravish'd Prey. The Bulls redeem'd, breathe open Air agen;Line 355 Next, by the Feet, they drag him from his Den. The wond'ring Neighbourhood, with glad surprize, Behold his shagged Breast, his Gyant Size, His Mouth that flames no more, and his extinguish'd Eyes. From that auspicious Day, with Rites Divine,Line 360 We worship at the Hero's Holy Shrine. Potitius first ordain'd these annual Vows, As Priests, were added the Pinarian House:

Who rais'd this Altar in the Sacred Shade; Where Honours, ever due, for ever shall be paid.Line 365 For these Deserts, and this high Virtue shown, Ye warlike Youths, your Heads with Garlands crown. Fill high the Goblets with a sparkling Flood: And with deep Draughts invoke our common God. This said, a double Wreath Evander twin'd:Line 370 And Poplars black and white his Temples bind. Then Brims his ample Bowl: With like Design The rest invoke the Gods, with sprinkled Wine. Mean time the Sun descended from the Skies; And the bright Evening-Star began to rise.Line 375 And now the Priests, Potitius at their Head, In Skins of Beasts involv'd, the long Procession led: Held high the flaming Tapers in their Hands; As Custom had prescrib'd their holy Bands: Then with a second Course the Tables load:Line 380 And with full Chargers offer to the God. The Salij sing; and cense his Altars round With Saban Smoke, their Heads with Poplar bound. One Choire of old, another of the young; To dance, and bear the Burthen of the Song.Line 385 The Lay records the Labours, and the Praise, And all th' Immortal Acts of Hercules. First, how the mighty Babe, when swath'd in Bands, The Serpents strangled, with his Infant Hands: Then, as in Years, and matchless Force he grew,Line 390 Th' Oechalian Walls, and Trojan overthrew. Besides a thousand Hazards they relate, Procur'd by Juno's, and Euristheus's Hate. Thy Hands, unconquer'd Heroe, cou'd subdue The Cloud-born Centaurs, and the Monster Crew.Line 395 Nor thy resistless Arm the Bull withstood: Nor He the roaring Terror of the Wood.

The triple Porter of the Stygian Seat, With lolling Tongue, lay fawning at thy Feet: And, seiz'd with Fear, forgot his mangled Meat.Line 400 Th' Infernal Waters trembled at thy Sight; Thee, God, no face of Danger cou'd Affright. Not huge Typhoeus, nor th' unnumber'd Snake, Increas'd with hissing Heads, in Lerna's Lake. Hail Jove's undoubted Son! An added GraceLine 405 To Heav'n, and the great Author of thy Race. Receive the gratful Off'rings, which we pay, And smile propitious on thy solemn Day. In Numbers, thus, they sung: Above the rest, The Den, and Death of Cacus crown the Feast.Line 410 The Woods to hollow Vales convey the Sound; The Vales to Hills, and Hills the Notes rebound. The Rites perform'd, the chearful Train retire. Betwixt young Pallas, and his aged Sire The Trojan pass'd, the City to survey;Line 415 And pleafing Talk beguil'd the tedious Way. The Stranger cast around his curious Eyes; New Objects viewing still, with new Surprise. With greedy Joy enquires of various Things; And Acts and Monuments of Ancient Kings.Line 420 Then thus the Founder of the Roman Tow'rs: These Woods were first the Seat of Silvan Pow'rs, Of Nymphs, and Fauns, and salvage Men, who took Their Birth from Trunks of Trees, and stubborn Oak. Nor Laws they knew, nor Manners, nor the CareLine 425 Of lab'ring Oxen, or the shining Share: Nor Arts of Gain, nor what they gain'd to spare. Their Exercise the Chase: the running Flood Supply'd their Thirst; the Trees supply'd their Food. Then Saturn came, who fled the Pow'r of Jove,Line 430 Robb'd of his Realms, and banish'd from above.

[illustration]

To the Hon^ble. Robert Bruce Second son to Robert late Earle of Ailesbury

The Men, dispers'd on Hills, to Towns he brought; And Laws ordain'd, and Civil Customs taught: And Latium call'd the Land where safe he lay, From his Unduteous Son, and his Usurping Sway.Line 435 With his mild Empire, Peace and Plenty came: And hence the Golden Times deriv'd their name. A more degenerate, and discolour'd Age, Succeeded this, with Avarice and Rage. Th' Ausonians, then, and bold Sicanians came;Line 440 And Saturn's Empire often chang'd the name. Then Kings, Gygantick Tybris, and the rest, With Arbitrary Sway the Land oppress'd. For Tybers flood was Albula before: Till, from the Tyrants Fate, his name it bore.Line 445 I last arriv'd, driv'n from my native home, By Fortune's Pow'r, and Fate's resistless Doom. Long toss'd on Seas I sought this happy Land: Warn'd by my Mother Nymph, and call'd by Heav'ns Command.

Thus, walking on, he spoke: and shew'd the Gate,Line 450 Since call'd Carmental by the Roman State; Where stood an Altar, Sacred to the Name Of old Carmenta, the Prophetick Dame: Who to her Son foretold th' Aenean Race, Sublime in Fame, and Rome's Imperial Place.Line 455 Then shews the Forest, which in after times, Fierce Romulus, for perpetrated Crimes, A Sacred Refuge made: with this, the Shrine Where Pan below the Rock had Rites Divine. Then tells of Argus death, his murder'd Guest,Line 460 Whose Grave, and Tomb, his Innocence attest. Thence, to the steep Tarpeian Rock he leads; Now Roof'd with Gold; then thatch'd with homely Reeds. A Reverent fear (such Superstition reigns Among the rude) ev'n then possess'd the Swains.Line 465

Some God they knew, what God they cou'd not tell, Did there amidst the sacred horrour dwell. Th' Arcadians thought him Jove; and said they saw The mighty Thund'rer with Majestick awe; Who shook his Shield, and dealt his Bolts around;Line 470 And scatter'd Tempests on the teeming Ground. Then saw two heaps of Ruins; once they stood Two stately Towns, on either side the Flood. Saturnia's and Janicula's Remains: And, either place, the Founder's Name retains.Line 475 Discoursing thus together, they resort Where poor Evander kept his Country Court. They view'd the ground of Rome's litigious Hall; Once Oxen low'd, where now the Lawyers bawl. Then, stooping, through the Narrow Gate they press'd,Line 480 When thus the King bespoke his Trojan Guest. Mean as it is, this Palace, and this Door, Receiv'd Alcides, then a Conquerour. Dare to be poor: accept our homely Food Which feasted him; and emulate a God.Line 485 Then, underneath a lowly Roof, he led The weary Prince; and laid him on a Bed: The stuffing Leaves, which Hides of Bears o'respread.

Now Night had shed her silver Dews around, And with her sable Wings embrac'd the Ground,Line 490 When Love's fair Goddess, anxious for her Son; (New Tumults rising, and new Wars begun) Couch'd with her Husband, in his Golden Bed, With these alluring Words invokes his aid. And, that her pleasing Speech his Mind may move,Line 495 Inspires each accent with the Charms of Love. While Cruel Fate conspir'd with Grecian Pow'rs, To level with the Ground the Trojan Tow'rs;

I ask'd not Aid th' unhappy to restore: Nor did the Succour of thy Skill implore.Line 500 Nor urg'd the Labours of my Lord in vain; A sinking Empire longer to sustain. Tho' much I ow'd to Priam's House; and more The Dangers of Aeneas did deplore. But now by Jove's Command, and Fates Decree,Line 505 His Race is doom'd to reign in Italy; With humble Suit I beg thy needful Art, O still propitious Pow'r, that rules my Heart! A Mother kneels a suppliant for her Son. By Thetis and Aurora thou wert wonLine 510 To forge impenetrable Shields; and grace, With fated Arms, a less illustrious Race. Behold, what haughty Nations are combin'd Against the Relicks of the Phrygian Kind; With Fire and Sword my People to destroy;Line 515 And conquer Venus twice, in conqu'ring Troy. She said; and strait her Arms, of snowy hue, About her unresolving Husband threw. Her soft Embraces soon infuse Desire: His Bones and Marrow sudden Warmth inspire;Line 520 And all the Godhead feels the wonted Fire. Not half so swift the ratling Thunder flies, Or forky Lightnings flash along the Skies. The Goddess, proud of her successful Wiles, And conscious of her Form, in secret Smiles.Line 525 Then thus, the Pow'r, obnoxious to her Charms, Panting, and half dissolving in her Arms: Why seek you Reasons for a Cause so just; Or your own Beauties, or my Love distrust? Long since, had you requir'd my helpful Hand,Line 530 Th' Artificer, and Art you might command,

To labour Arms for Troy: Nor Jove, nor Fate, Confin'd their Empire to so short a Date. And, if you now desire new Wars to wage, My Skill I promise; and my Pains engage.Line 535 Whatever melting Metals can conspire, Or breathing Bellows, or the forming Fire, Is freely yours: Your anxious Fears remove: And think no Task is difficult to Love. Trembling he spoke; and eager of her Charms,Line 540 He snatch'd the willing Goddess to his Arms; 'Till in her Lap infus'd, he lay possess'd Of full Desire, and sunk to pleasing Rest. Now when the Night her middle race had rode; And his first Slumber had refresh'd the God;Line 545 The time when early Housewifes leave the Bed; And living Embers on the Hearth they spred; Supply the Lamp, and call the Maids to rise, With yawning Mouths, and with half open'd Eyes; They ply the Distaff by the winking Light;Line 550 And to their daily Labour add the Night. Thus frugally they earn their Childrens Bread: And uncorrupted keep the Nuptial Bed. Not less concern'd, nor at a later Hour, Rose from his downy Couch the forging Pow'r.Line 555

Sacred to Vulcan's Name an Isle there lay, Betwixt Sicilia's Coasts and Lipare; Rais'd high on smoaking Rocks, and deep below, In hollow Caves the Fires of Aetna glow. The Cyclops here their heavy Hammers deal;Line 560 Loud Strokes, and hissings of tormented Steel Are heard around: The boyling Waters roar; And smoaky Flames thro' fuming Tunnels soar. Hether, the Father of the Fire, by Night, Through the brown Air precipitates his Flight.Line 565

[illustration]

To Christopher Rich of Grays Inn Esq

AE. 8. l: 560

On their Eternal Anvils here he found The Brethren beating, and the Blows go round: A load of pointless Thunder now there lies Before their Hands, to ripen for the Skies: These Darts, for angry Jove, they dayly cast:Line 570 Consum'd on Mortals with prodigious waste. Three Rays of writhen Rain, of Fire three more, Of winged Southern Winds, and cloudy Store As many parts, the dreadful Mixture frame: And Fears are added, and avenging Flame.Line 575 Inferior Ministers, for Mars repair His broken Axeltrees, and blunted War: And send him forth agen, with furbish'd Arms, To wake the lazy War, with Trumpets loud Alarms. The rest refresh the scaly Snakes, that foldLine 580 The Shield of Pallas; and renew their Gold. Full on the Crest the Gorgon's Head they place, With Eyes that rowl in Death, and with distorted Face.

My Sons, said Vulcan, set your Tasks aside, Your Strength, and Master Skill, must now be try'd.Line 585 Arms, for a Heroe forge: Arms that require Your Force, your Speed, and all your forming Fire. He said: They set their former Work aside: And their new Toils with eager haste divide. A Flood of molten Silver, Brass, and Gold,Line 590 And deadly Steel, in the large Furnace rowl'd; Of this, their artful Hands a Shield prepare; Alone sufficient to sustain the War. Sev'n Orbs within a spacious round they close; One stirs the Fire, and one the Bellows blows.Line 595 The hissing Steel is in the Smithy drown'd; The Grot with beaten Anvils groans around. By turns their Arms advance, in equal time: By turns their Hands descend, and Hammers chime. Line 600

They turn the glowing Mass, with crooked Tongs:Line 600 The fiery Work proceeds, with Rustick Songs. While, at the Lemnian God's Command, they urge Their Labours thus, and ply th' Eolian Forge: The chearful Morn salutes Evander's Eyes; And Songs of chirping Birds invite to rise.Line 605 He leaves his lowly Bed; his Buskins meet Above his Ankles; Sandals sheath his Feet: He sets his trusty Sword upon his side; And o're his Shoulder throws a Panther's Hide. Two Menial Dogs before their Master press'd:Line 610 Thus clad, and guarded thus, he seeks his Kingly Guest. Mindful of promis'd Aid, he mends his Pace: But meets Aeneas in the middle Space. Young Pallas did his Father's Steps attend; And true Achates waited on his Friend.Line 615 They join their Hands; a secret Seat they chufe; Th' Arcadian first, their former Talk renews. Undaunted Prince, I never can believe The Trojan Empire lost, while you survive. Command th' Assistance of a faithful Friend:Line 620 But feeble are the Succours I can send. Our narrow Kingdom, here the Tyber bounds; That other side the Latian State surrounds; Insults our Walls, and wastes our fruitful Grounds. But mighty Nations I prepare, to joinLine 625 Their Arms with yours, and aid your just Design. You come, as by your better Genius sent: And Fortune seems to favour your intent. Not far from hence there stands a Hilly Town, Of ancient Building, and of high Renown;Line 630 Torn from the Tuscans, by the Lydian Race; Who gave the Name of Caere, to the Place

Once Agyllina call'd: It flourish'd long In Pride of Wealth; and warlike People strong. 'Till curs'd Mezentius, in a fatal Hour,Line 635 Assum'd the Crown, with Arbitrary Pow'r. What Words can paint those execrable Times; The Subjects Suff'rings, and the Tyrant's Crimes! That Blood, those Murthers, O ye Gods replace On his own Head, and on his impious Race!Line 640 The living, and the Dead, at his Command Were coupled, Face to Face, and Hand to Hand: 'Till choak'd with Stench, in loath'd Embraces ty'd, The ling'ring Wretches pin'd away, and dy'd. Thus plung'd in Ills, and meditating more,Line 645 The People's Patience tyr'd, no longer bore The raging Monster: But with Arms beset His House, and Vengeance and Destruction threat. They fire his Palace: While the Flame ascends, They force his Guards; and execute his Friends.Line 650 He cleaves the Crowd; and favour'd by the Night, To Turnus's friendly Court directs his flight. By just Revenge the Tuscans set on Fire, With Arms, their King to Punishment require: Their num'rous Troops, now muster'd on the Strand,Line 655 My Counsel shall submit to your Command. Their Navy swarms upon the Coasts: They cry To hoist their Anchors; but the Gods deny. An ancient Augur, skill'd in future Fate, With these foreboding Words restrains their Hate.Line 660 Ye brave in Arms, ye Lydian Blood, the Flow'r Of Tuscan Youth, and choice of all their Pow'r, Whom just Revenge against Mezentius arms, To seek your Tyrant's Death, by lawful Arms: Know this; no Native of our Land may leadLine 665 This pow'rful People: Seek a Foreign Head.

Aw'd with these Words, in Camps they still abide; And wait with longing Looks their promis'd Guide. Tarchon, the Tuscan Chief, to me has sent Their Crown, and ev'ry Regal Ornament:Line 670 The People join their own with his Desire; And All, my Conduct, as their King, require. But the chill Blood that creeps within my Veins, And Age, and lifeless Limbs unfit for Pains, And a Soul conscious of its own Decay,Line 675 Have forc'd me to refuse Imperial Sway. My Pallas were more fit to mount the Throne; And shou'd, but he's a Sabine Mother's Son; And half a Native: But in you combine A Manly Vigour, and a Foreign Line.Line 680 Where Fate and smiling Fortune shew the Way, Pursue the ready Path to Sov'raign Sway. The Staff of my declining Days, my Son, Shall make your good or ill Success his own. In fighting Fields from you shall learn to dare:Line 685 And serve the hard Apprentiship of War. Your matchless Courage, and your Conduct view; And early shall begin t' admire and copy you. Besides, two hundred Horse he shall command: Tho' few, a warlike and well chosen Band.Line 690 These in my Name are listed: And my Son As many more has added in his own. Scarce had he said; Achates and his Guest, With downcast Eyes their silent Grief exprest: Who short of Succours; and in deep Despair,Line 695 Shook at the dismal Prospect of the War. But his bright Mother, from a breaking Cloud, To chear her Issue, thunder'd thrice aloud. Thrice, forky Lightning flash'd along the Sky; And Tyrrhene Trumpets thrice were heard on high.Line 700

Then, gazing up, repeated Peals they hear: And, in a Heav'n serene, refulgent Arms appear; Red'ning the Skies, and glitt'ring all around, The temper'd Metals clash; and yield a Silver sound. The rest stood trembling, struck with awe divine,Line 705 Aeneas onely conscious to the Sign: Presag'd th' Event; and joyful view'd, above, Th' accomplish'd Promise of the Queen of Love. Then, to th' Arcadian King: This Prodigy (Dismiss your Fear) belongs alone to me.Line 710 Heav'n calls me to the War: Th' expected Sign Is giv'n of promis'd Aid, and Arms Divine. My Goddess-Mother; whose Indulgent Care, Foresaw the Dangers of the growing War; This Omen gave; when Bright Vulcanian Arms,Line 715 Fated from force of Steel by Stygian Charms, Suspended, shone on high: She then foreshow'd Approaching Fights, and Fields to float in Blood. Turnus shall dearly pay for Faith forsworn; And Corps, and Swords, and Shields, on Tyber born,Line 720 Shall choak his Flood: Now sound the loud Alarms; And Latian Troops prepare your perjur'd Arms.

He said; and rising from his homely Throne, The Solemn Rites of Hercules begun: And on his Altars wak'd the sleeping Fires:Line 725 Then chearful to his Household-Gods retires. There offers chosen Sheep: Th' Arcadian King And Trojan Youth the same Oblations bring. Next of his Men, and Ships, he makes review, Draws out the best, and ablest of the Crew.Line 730 Down with the falling Stream the Refuse run: To raise with joyful News his drooping Son. Steeds are prepar'd to mount the Trojan Band; Who wait their Leader to the Tyrrhene Land. Line 735

A sprightly Courser, fairer than the rest,Line 735 The King himself presents his Royal Guest. A Lyons Hide his Back and Limbs infold; Precious with studded work, and Paws of Gold. Fame through the little City spreads aloud Th' intended March, amid the fearful Crowd:Line 740 The Matrons beat their Breasts; dissolve in Tears; And double their Devotion in their Fears. The War at hand appears with more affright: And rises ev'ry Moment to the sight. Then, old Evander, with a close embrace,Line 745 Strain'd his departing Friend; and Tears o're-flow his Face: Wou'd Heav'n, said he, my strength and youth recall, Such as I was beneath Preneste's Wall; Then when I made the foremost Foes retire, And set whole heaps of conquer'd Shields on Fire.Line 750 When Herilus in single Fight I slew; Whom with three lives Feronia did endue: And thrice I sent him to the Stygian Shore; Till the last Ebbing Soul return'd no more: Such, if I stood renew'd, not these Alarms,Line 755 Nor Death, shou'd rend me from my Pallas arms: Nor proud Mezentius, thus unpunish'd, boast His Rapes and Murthers on the Tuscan Coast. Ye Gods! and mighty Jove, in pity bring Relief, and hear a Father, and a King.Line 760 If Fate and you, reserve these Eyes, to see My Son return with peace and Victory; If the lov'd Boy shall bless his Father's sight; If we shall meet again with more delight; Then draw my Life in length, let me sustain,Line 765 In hopes of his Embrace, the worst of Pain. But if your hard Decrees, which O I dread, Have doom'd to death his undeserving head;

This, O this very Moment, let me die; While Hopes and Fears in equal ballance lye.Line 770 While yet Possest of all his Youthful Charms, I strain him close within these Aged Arms: Before that fatal news my Soul shall wound! He said, and, swooning, sunk upon the ground; His Servants bore him off: And softly laidLine 775 His languish'd Limbs upon his homely Bed.

The Horsemen march; the Gates are open'd wide; Aeneas at their head, Achates by his side. Next these the Trojan Leaders rode along: Last, follows in the Reer, th' Arcadian Throng.Line 780 Young Pallas shone conspicuous o're the rest; Guilded his Arms, Embroider'd was his Vest. So, from the Seas, exerts his radiant head The Star, by whom the Lights of Heav'n are led: Shakes from his rosie Locks the perly Dews;Line 785 Dispels the darkness, and the Day renews. The trembling Wives, the Walls and Turrets crowd; And follow, with their Eyes, the dusty Cloud: Which Winds disperse by fits; and shew from far The blaze of Arms, and Shields, and shining War.Line 790 The Troops, drawn up in beautiful Array, O're heathy Plains pursue the ready way. Repeated peals of showts are heard around: The Neighing Coursers answer to the sound: And shake with horny Hoofs the solid ground.Line 795

A greenwood Shade, for long Religion known, Stands by the Streams that wash the Tuscan Town: Incompass'd round with gloomy Hills above, Which add a holy horrour to the Grove. The first Inhabitants, of Grecian Blood,Line 800 That sacred Forest to Sylvanus vow'd:

The Guardian of their Flocks, and Fields; and pay Their due Devotions on his annual day. Not far from hence, along the River's side, In Tents secure, the Tuscan Troops abide;Line 805 By Tarchon led. Now, from a rising ground, Aeneas cast his wond'ring Eyes around; And all the Tyrrhene Army had in sight, Stretch'd on the spacious Plain from left to right. Thether his warlike Train the Trojan led;Line 810 Refresh'd his Men, and weary'd Horses fed.

Mean time the Mother Goddess, crown'd with Charms, Breaks through the Clouds, and brings the fated Arms. Within a winding Vale she finds her Son, On the cool Rivers' Banks, retir'd alone.Line 815 She shews her heav'nly Form, without disguise, And gives her self to his desiring Eyes. Behold, she said, perform'd, in ev'ry part My promise made; and Vulcan's labour'd Art. Now seek, secure, the Latian Enemy;Line 820 And haughty Turnus to the Field defy. She said: And having first her Son embrac'd; The radiant Arms beneath an Oak she plac'd. Proud of the Gift, he rowl'd his greedy sight Around the Work, and gaz'd with vast delight.Line 825 He lifts, he turns, he poizes, and admires The Crested Helm, that vomits radiant Fires: His hands the fatal Sword, and Corslet hold: One keen with temper'd Steel, one stiff with Gold. Both ample, flaming both, and beamy bright:Line 830 So shines a Cloud, when edg'd with adverse Light. He shakes the pointed Spear; and longs to try The plated Cuishes, on his manly thigh, But most admires the Shields Mysterious mould, And Roman Triumphs rising on the Gold.Line 835

[illustration]

To S^r. Godfry Kneller Knight Principall Painter to his Majesty

AE. 8. l. 805

For those, emboss'd, the Heav'nly Smith had wrought, (Not in the Rolls of future Fate untaught,) The Wars in Order, and the Race Divine Of Warriors, issuing from the Julian Line. The Cave of Mars was dress'd with mossy Greens:Line 840 There, by the Wolf, were laid the Martial Twins. Intrepid on her swelling Dugs they hung; The foster Dam loll'd out her fawning Tongue: They suck'd secure, while bending Back her Head, She lick'd their tender Limbs; and form'd them as they fed.Line 845 Not far from thence new Rome appears, with Games Projected for the Rape of Sabine Dames. The Pit resounds with Shrieks: A War succeeds, For breach of Publick Faith, and unexampl'd Deeds. Here for Revenge the Sabine Troops contend:Line 850 The Romans there with Arms the Prey defend. Weary'd with tedious War, at length they cease; And both the Kings and Kingdoms plight the Peace. The friendly Chiefs, before Jove's Altar stand; Both arm'd, with each a Charger in his Hand:Line 855 A fatted Sow, for Sacrifice is led; With Imprecations on the perjur'd Head. Near this, the Traytor Metius, stretch'd between Four fiery Steeds, is dragg'd along the Green; By Tullus doom: The Brambles drink his Blood;Line 860 And his torn Limbs are left, the Vulture's Food. There, Porsena to Rome proud Tarquin brings; And wou'd by Force restore the banish'd Kings. One Tyrant, for his fellow Tyrant fights: The Roman Youth assert their Native Rights.Line 865 Before the Town the Tuscan Army lies: To win by Famine, or by Fraud surprise. Their King, half threat'ning, half disdaining stood: While Cocles broke the Bridge; and stem'd the Flood. Line 870

The Captive Maids there tempt the raging Tide:Line 870 Scap'd from their Chains, with Clelia for their Guide.

High on a Rock Heroick Manlius stood; To guard the Temple, and the Temple's God: Then Rome was poor; and there you might behold The Palace, thatch'd with Straw, now roof'd with Gold.Line 875 The Silver Goofe before the shining Gate There flew; and by her Cackle, sav'd the State. She told the Gauls approach: Th' approaching Gauls, Obscure in Night, ascend, and seize the Walls. The Gold, dissembl'd well their yellow Hair:Line 880 And Golden Chains on their white Necks they wear. Gold are their Vests: Long Alpine Spears they wield: And their left Arm sustains a length of Shield. Hard by, the leaping Salian Priests advance: And naked thro' the Streets the mad Luperci dance:Line 885 In Caps of Wool. The Targets dropt from Heav'n: Here modest Matrons in soft Litters driv'n, To pay their Vows in solemn Pomp appear: And odorous Gums in their chast Hands they bear. Far hence remov'd, the Stygian Seats are seen:Line 890 Pains of the damn'd, and punish'd Catiline: Hung on a Rock the Traytor; and around, The Furies hissing from the neather Ground. Apart from these, the happy Souls, he draws: And Cato's holy Ghost, dispensing Laws.Line 895 Betwixt the Quarters, flows a Golden Sea: But foaming Surges, there, in Silver play. The dancing Dolphins, with their Tails, divide The glitt'ring Waves; and cut the precious Tide. Amid the Main, two mighty Fleets engageLine 900 Their Brazen Beaks; oppos'd with equal Rage. Actium, surveys the well disputed Prize: Leucate's wat'ry Plain, with foamy Billows fries.

Young Caesar, on the Stern, in Armour bright; Here leads the Romans and their Gods to fight:Line 905 His beamy Temples shoot their Flames afar; And o're his Head is hung the Julian Star. Agrippa seconds him, with prosp'rous Gales: And, with propitious Gods, his Foes assails. A Naval Crown, that binds his Manly Brows,Line 910 The happy Fortune of the Fight foreshows.

Rang'd on the Line oppos'd, Antonius brings Barbarian Aids, and Troops of Eastern Kings. Th' Arabians near, and Bactrians from afar, Of Tongues discordant, and a mingled War.Line 915 And, rich in gaudy Robes, amidst the Strife, His ill Fate follows him; th' Egyptian Wife. Moving they fight: With Oars, and forky Prows, The Froth is gather'd; and the Water glows. It seems, as if the Cyclades againLine 920 Were rooted up, and justled in the Main: Or floating Mountains, floating Mountains meet: Such is the fierce Encounter of the Fleet. Fire-balls are thrown; and pointed Jav'lins fly: The Fields of Neptune take a Purple Dye.Line 925 The Queen her self, amidst the loud Alarms, With Cymbals toss'd her fainting Souldiers warms. Fool as she was; who had not yet divin'd Her cruel Fate; nor saw the Snakes behind. Her Country Gods, the Monsters of the Sky,Line 930 Great Neptune, Pallas, and Love's Queen, defy. The Dog Anubis barks, but barks in vain; Nor longer dares oppose th' Aetherial Train. Mars, in the middle of the shining Shield Is grav'd, and strides along the liquid Field.Line 935 The Dirae sowse from Heav'n, with swift Descent: And Discord, dy'd in Blood, with Garments rent,

Divides the Preace: Her Steps, Bellona treads, And shakes her Iron Rod above their Heads. This seen, Apollo, from his Actian height,Line 940 Pours down his Arrows: At whose winged flight The trembling Indians, and Egyptians yield: And soft Sabaeans quit the wat'ry Field. The fatal Mistress hoists her silken Sails; And, shrinking from the Fight, invokes the Gales.Line 945 Aghast she looks; and heaves her Breast, for Breath: Panting, and pale with fear of future Death. The God had figur'd her, as driv'n along, By Winds and Waves; and scudding thro' the Throng. Just opposite, sad Nilus, opens wideLine 950 His Arms, and ample Bosom, to the Tide. And spreads his Mantle o're the winding Coast: In which he wraps his Queen, and hides the flying Ho•••••• The Victor, to the Gods his Thanks express'd▪ And Rome triumphant, with his Presence bless'd.Line 955 Three hundred Temples in the Town he plac'd: With Spoils and Altars ev'ry Temple grac'd. Three shining Nights, and three succeeding Days, The Fields resound with Shouts; the Streets with Praise The Domes with Songs, the Theatres with Plays.Line 960 All Altars flame: Before each Altar lies, Drench'd in his Gore, the destin'd Sacrifice. Great Caesar sits sublime upon his Throne; Before Apollo's Porch of Parian Stone: Accepts the Presents vow'd for Victory;Line 965 And hangs the monumental Crowns on high. Vast Crowds of vanquish'd Nations march along: Various in Arms, in Habit, and in Tongue. Here, Mulciber assigns the proper Place For Carians, and th' ungirt Numidian Race;Line 970

Then ranks the Thracians in the second Row; With Scythians, expert in the Dart and Bow. And here the tam'd Euphrates humbly glides; And there the Rhine submits her swelling Tides. And proud Araxes, whom no Bridge cou'd bind:Line 975 The Danes unconquer'd Offspring, march behind; And Morini, the last of Human Kind.

These Figures, on the Shield divinely wrought, By Vulcan labour'd, and by Venus brought, With Joy and Wonder fill the Hero's thought.Line 980 Unknown the Names, he yet admires the Grace; And bears aloft the Fame, and Fortune of his Race.

The Ninth Book of the Aeneis.

The Argument.

Turnus takes Advantage of Aeneas's Absence, fires some of his Ships, (which are transform'd into Sea-Nymphs) and assaults his Camp. The Trojans reduc'd to the last Extremities, send Nisus and Euryalus to recall Aeneas; which furnishes the Poet with that admirable Episode of their Friendship, Generosity; and the conclusion of their Adventures.

WHile these Affairs in distant Places pass'd, The various Iris Juno sends with haste, To find bold Turnus, who, with anxious Thought, The secret Shade of his great Grandsire sought. Retir'd alone she found the daring Man;Line 5 And op'd her rosie Lips, and thus began. What none of all the Gods cou'd grant thy Vows; That, Turnus, this auspicious Day bestows. Aeneas, gone to seek th' Arcadian Prince, Has left the Trojan Camp without defence;Line 10 And, short of Succours there; employs his Pains In Parts remote to raise the Tuscan Swains: Now snatch an Hour that favours thy Designs, Unite thy Forces, and attack their Lines. This said, on equal Wings she pois'd her Weight,Line 15 And form'd a radiant Rainbow in her flight.

The Daunian Heroe lifts his Hands and Eyes; And thus invokes the Goddess as she flies. Iris, the Grace of Heav'n, what Pow'r Divine Has sent thee down, thro' dusky Clouds to shine?Line 20 See they divide; immortal Day appears; And glitt'ring Planets dancing in their Spheres!

[illustration]

To the Right Hon^ble. Robert Earle of Sunderland L^d. Cham∣berlaine of his Majesties Household &

AE. 9. l. 2.

With Joy, these happy Omens I obey; And follow to the War, the God that leads the Way.

Thus having said, as by the Brook he stood,Line 25 He scoop'd the Water from the Crystal Flood; Then with his Hands the drops to Heav'n he throws, And loads the Pow'rs above with offer'd Vows.

Now march the bold Confed'rates thro' the Plain; Well hors'd, well clad, a rich and shining Train:Line 30 Messapus leads the Van; and in the Reer, The Sons of Tyrrheus in bright Arms appear. In the Main Battel, with his flaming Crest, The mighty Turnus tow'rs above the rest: Silent they move; majestically slow,Line 35 Like ebbing Nile, or Ganges in his flow. The Trojans view the dusty Cloud from far; And the dark Menace of the distant War. Caicus from the Rampire saw it rise, Blackning the Fields, and thickning thro' the Skies.Line 40 Then to his Fellows thus aloud he calls, What rowling Clouds, my Friends, approach the Walls? Arm, arm, and man the Works; prepare your Spears, And pointed Darts; the Latian Hoast appears.

Thus warn'd, they shut their Gates; with Shouts ascendLine 45 The Bulwarks, and secure their Foes attend. For their wise Gen'ral with foreseeing Care, Had charg'd them not to tempt the doubtful War: Nor, tho' provok'd, in open Fields advance; But close within their Lines attend their chance.Line 50 Unwilling, yet they keep the strict Command; And sourly wait in Arms the Hostile Band. The fiery Turnus flew before the rest, A Pye-ball'd Steed of Thracian Strain he press'd; His Helm of massy Gold; and Crimson was his Crest.Line 55

With twenty Horse to fecond his Designs, An unexpected Foe, he fac'd the Lines.

Is there, he said, in Arms who bravely dare, His Leader's Honour, and his Danger share? Then, spurring on, his brandish'd Dart he threw,Line 60 In sign of War, applauding Shouts ensue.

Amaz'd to find a dastard Race that run Behind the Rampires, and the Battel shun, He rides around the Camp, with rowling Eyes, And stops at ev'ry Post; and ev'ry Passage tries.Line 65 So roams the nightly Wolf about the Fold, Wet with descending Show'rs, and stiff with cold; He howls for Hunger, and he grins for Pain; His gnashing Teeth are exercis'd in vain: And impotent of Anger, finds no wayLine 70 In his distended Paws to grasp the Prey. The Mothers listen; but the bleating Lambs Securely swig the Dug, beneath the Dams. Thus ranges eager Turnus o're the Plain, Sharp with Desire, and furious with Disdain:Line 75 Surveys each Passage with a piercing Sight; To force his Foes in equal Field to fight. Thus, while he gazes round, at length he spies Where, fenc'd with strong Redoubts, their Navy lies; Close underneath the Walls: The washing TydeLine 80 Secures from all approach this weaker side. He takes the wish'd Occasion; fills his Hand With ready Fires, and shakes a flaming Brand: Urg'd by his Presence, ev'ry Soul is warm'd, And ev'ry Hand with kindled Firrs is arm'd.Line 85 From the fir'd Pines the scatt'ring Sparkles fly; Fat Vapours mix'd with Flames involve the Sky. What Pow'r, O Muses, cou'd avert the Flame Which threaten'd, in the Fleet, the Trojan Name! Line 90

Tell: For the Fact thro' length of Time obscure,Line 90 Is hard to Faith; yet shall the Fame endure.

'Tis said, that when the Chief prepar'd his flight, And fell'd his Timber from Mount Ida's height, The Grandam Goddess then approach'd her Son, And with a Mother's Majesty begun.Line 95 Grant me, she said, the sole Request I bring. Since conquer'd Heav'n has own'd you for its King: On Ida's Brows, for Ages past, there stood, With Firrs and Maples fill'd, a shady Wood: And on the Summit rose a Sacred Grove,Line 100 Where I was worshipp'd with Religious Love; Those Woods, that Holy Grove, my long delight, I gave the Trojan Prince, to speed his flight. Now fill'd with Fear, on their behalf I come; Let neither Winds o'reset, nor Waves intombLine 105 The floating Forests of the Sacred Pine; But let it be their Safety to be mine. Then thus reply'd her awful Son; who rowls The radiant Stars, and Heav'n and Earth controuls; How dare you, Mother, endless Date demand,Line 110 For Vessels moulded by a Mortal Hand? What then is Fate? Shall bold Aeneas ride Of Safety certain, on th' uncertain Tide? Yet what I can, I grant: When, wafted o're, The Chief is landed on the Latian Shore,Line 115 Whatever Ships escape the raging Storms, At my Command shall change their fading Forms To Nymphs Divine: and plow the wat'ry Way, Like Dotis, and the Daughters of the Sea.

To seal his sacred Vow, by Styx he swore,Line 120 The Lake of liquid Pitch, the dreery Shore; And Phlegethon's innavigable Flood, And the black Regions of his Brother God: He said; and shook the Skies with his Imperial Nod.

And now at length the number'd Hours were come,Line 125 Prefix'd by Fate's irrevocable Doom, When the great Mother of the Gods was free To save her Ships, and finish Jove's Decree. First, from the Quarter of the Morn, there sprung A Light that sign'd the Heav'ns, and shot along:Line 130 Then from a Cloud, fring'd round with Golden Fires, Were Timbrels heard, and Berecynthian Quires: And last a Voice, with more than Mortal Sounds, Both Hosts in Arms oppos'd, with equal Horrour wounds.

O Trojan Race, your needless Aid forbear;Line 135 And know my Ships are my peculiar Care. With greater ease the bold Rutulian may, With hissing Brands, attempt to burn the Sea, Than sindge my sacred Pines. But you my Charge, Loos'd from your crooked Anchors lanch at large,Line 140 Exalted each a Nymph: Forsake the Sand, And swim the Seas, at Cybele's Command. No sooner had the Goddess ceas'd to speak, When lo, th' obedient Ships, their Haulsers break; And, strange to tell, like Dolphins in the Main,Line 145 They plunge their Prows, and dive, and spring again: As many beauteous Maids the Billows sweep, As rode before tall Vessels on the Deep. The Foes, surpriz'd with Wonder, stood aghast, Messapus curb'd his fiery Courser's haste;Line 150 Old Tyber roar'd; and raising up his Head, Call'd back his Waters to their Oozy Bed. Turnus alone, undaunted, bore the Shock; And with these Words his trembling Troops bespoke▪ These Monsters for the Trojans Fate are meant,Line 155 And are by Jove for black Presages sent. He takes the Cowards last Relief away; For fly they cannot; and, constrain'd to stay, Must yield unfought, a base inglorious Prey.

[illustration]

To Thomas Foley Jun^r: of Great Witley Court in the County of Worcester Esq.

AE. 9. l. 130.

The liquid half of all the Globe, is lost;Line 160 Heav'n shuts the Seas, and we secure the Coast. Theirs is no more, than that small spot of Ground, Which Millions of our Martial Troops surround. Their Fates I fear not; or vain Oracles; 'Twas giv'n to Venus, they shou'd cross the Seas:Line 165 And land secure upon the Latian Plains, Their promis'd Hour is pass'd, and mine remains. 'Tis in the Fate of Turnus, to destroy With Sword and Fire the faithless Race of Troy. Shall such Affronts as these, alone inflameLine 170 The Grecian Brothers, and the Grecian Name? My Cause and theirs is one; a fatal Strife, And final Ruin, for a ravish'd Wife. Was't not enough, that, punish'd for the Crime, They fell; but will they fall a second Time?Line 175 One wou'd have thought they paid enough before, To curse the costly Sex; and durst offend no more. Can they securely trust their feeble Wall, A slight Partition, a thin Interval, Betwixt their Fate and them; when Troy, tho' builtLine 180 By Hands Divine, yet perish'd by their Guilt? Lend me, for once, my Friends, your valiant Hands, To force from out their Lines these dastard Bands. Less than a thousand Ships will end this War; Nor Vulcan needs his fated Arms prepare.Line 185 Let all the Tuscans, all th' Arcadians join, Nor these, nor those shall frustrate my Design. Let them not fear the Treasons of the Night; The robb'd Palladium, the pretended flight: Our Onset shall be made in open Light.Line 190 No wooden Engine shall their Town betray, Fires they shall have around, but Fires by Day.

No Grecian Babes before their Camp appear, Whom Hector's Arms detain'd, to the tenth tardy Year. Now, since the Sun is rowling to the West,Line 195 Give we the silent Night to neeedful Rest: Refresh your Bodies, and your Arms prepare, The Morn shall end the small Remains of War.

The Post of Honour to Messapus falls, To keep the Nightly Guard; to watch the Walls;Line 200 To pitch the Fires at Distances around, And close the Trojans in their scanty Ground. Twice seven Rutulian Captains ready stand; And twice seven hundred Horse these Chiefs command: All clad in shining Arms the Works invest;Line 205 Each with a radiant Helm, and waving Crest. Stretch'd at their length, they press the grassy Ground; They laugh, they sing, the jolly Bowls go round: With Lights, and chearful Fires renew the Day; And pass the wakeful Night in Feasts and Play.Line 210

The Trojans, from above, their Foes beheld; And with arm'd Legions all the Rampires fill'd: Seiz'd with Affright, their Gates they first explore, Join Works to Works with Bridges; Tow'r to Tow'r: Thus all things needful for Defence, abound;Line 215 Mnestheus, and brave Seresthus walk the round: Commission'd by their Absent Prince, to share The common Danger, and divide the Care. The Souldiers draw their Lots; and as they fall, By turns relieve each other on the Wall.Line 220

Nigh where the Foes their utmost Guards advance, To watch the Gate, was warlike Nisus chance. His Father Hyrtacus of Noble Blood; His Mother was a Hunt'ress of the Wood: And sent him to the Wars; well cou'd he bearLine 225 His Lance in fight, and dart the flying Spear:

But better skill'd unerring Shafts to send: Beside him stood Euryalus his Friend. Euryalus, than whom the Trojan Hoast No fairer Face, or fweeter Air could boast.Line 230 Scarce had the Down to shade his Cheeks begun; One was their Care, and their Delight was one. One Common hazard in the War they shar'd; And now were both by choice upon the Guard.

Then Nisus, thus: Or do the Gods inspireLine 235 This warmth, or make we Gods of our Desire? A gen'rous ardour boils within my Breast, Eager of Action, Enemy to Rest: This urges me to fight, and fires my Mind, To leave a memorable Name behind.Line 240 Thou see'st the Foe secure: how faintly shine Their scatter'd Fires! the most in Sleep supine; Along the ground, an easie Conquest lye; The wakeful few, the fuming Flaggon ply: All hush'd around. Now hear what I revolve;Line 245 A Thought unripe; and scarcely yet resolve. Our absent Prince both Camp and Council mourn; By Message both wou'd hasten his return: If they confer what I demand, on thee, (For Fame is Recompence enough for me)Line 250 Methinks, beneath yon Hill, I have espy'd A way that safely will my passage guide.

Euryalus stood list'ning while he spoke; With love of Praise, and noble Envy struck; Then to his ardent Friend expos'd his Mind:Line 245 All this alone, and leaving me behind, Am I unworthy, Nisus, to be join'd? Think'st thou I can my share of Glory yield, Or send thee unassisted to the Field? Line 260

Not so my Father taught my Childhood Arms;Line 260 Born in a Siege, and bred among Alarms! Nor is my Youth unworthy of my Friend, Nor of the Heav'n-born Heroe I attend. The thing call'd Life, with ease I can disclaim; And think it over sold to purchase Fame.Line 265

Then Nisus, thus; alas! thy tender years Wou'd minister new matter to my Fears: So may the Gods, who view this friendly Strife, Restore me to thy lov'd Embrace with life, Condemn'd to pay my Vows (as sure I trust,)Line 270 This thy Request is Cruel and Unjust. But if some Chance, as many Chances are, And doubtful Hazards in the deeds of War; If one shou'd reach my Head, there let it fall, And spare thy Life; I wou'd not perish all.Line 275 Thy bloomy Youth deserves a longer date; Live thou to mourn thy Love's unhappy Fate: To bear my mangled Body from the Foe; Or buy it back, and Fun'ral Rites bestow. Or if hard Fortune shall those Dues deny,Line 280 Thou canst at least an empty Tomb supply. O let not me the Widows Tears renew; Nor let a Mother's Curse my Name pursue; Thy Pious Parent, who, for love of thee, Forsook the Coasts of friendly Sicily,Line 285 Her Age, committing to the Seas and Wind, When ev'ry weary Matron staid behind. To this, Euryalus, you plead in vain, And but protract the Cause you cannot gain: No more delays, but haste. With that he wakesLine 290 The nodding Watch; each to his Office takes. The Guard reliev'd, the gen'rous Couple went To find the Council at the Royal Tent.

All Creatures else forgot their daily Care; And Sleep, the common Gift of Nature, share:Line 295 Except the Trojan Peers, who wakeful sate In nightly Council for th' indanger'd State. They vote a Message to their absent Chief; Shew their Distress; and beg a swift Relief. Amid the Camp a silent Seat they chose,Line 300 Remote from Clamour, and secure from Foes. On their left Arms their ample Shields they bear, The right reclin'd upon the bending Spear. Now Nisus and his Friend approach the Guard, And beg Admission, eager to be heard:Line 305 Th' Affair important, not to be deferr'd. Ascanius bids 'em be conducted in; Ord'ring the more experienc'd to begin. Then Nisus thus. Ye Fathers lend your Ears; Nor judge our bold Attempt beyond our Years.Line 310 The Foe securely drench'd in Sleep and Wine, Neglect their Watch; the Fires but thinly shine: And where the Smoke, in cloudy Vapours flies, Cov'ring the Plain, and curling to the Skies, Betwixt two Paths, which at the Gate divide,Line 315 Close by the Sea, a Passage we have spy'd, Which will our way to great Aeneas guide. Expect each Hour to see him safe again, Loaded with Spoils of Foes in Battel slain. Snatch we the lucky Minute while we may:Line 320 Nor can we be mistaken in the way; For hunting in the Vale, we both have seen The rising Turrets, and the Stream between; And know the winding Course, with ev'ry Ford. He ceas'd: And old Alethes took the Word.Line 325

Our Country Gods, in whom our Trust we place, Will yet from Ruin save the Trojan Race:

While we behold such dauntless Worth appear In dawning Youth; and Souls so void of Fear. Then, into Tears of Joy the Father broke;Line 330 Each in his longing Arms by Turns he took: Panted and paus'd; and thus again he spoke. Ye brave young Men, what equal Gifts can we, In recompencc of such Desert, decree? The greatest, sure, and best you can receive,Line 335 The Gods, and your own conscious Worth will give. The rest our grateful Gen'ral will bestow; And young Ascanius 'till his Manhood owe.

And I, whose Welfare in my Father lies, Ascanius adds, by the great Deities,Line 340 By my dear Country, by my household Gods, By hoary Vesta's Rites, and dark Abodes, Adjure you both; (on you my Fortune stands, That and my Faith I plight into your Hands:) Make me but happy in his safe Return,Line 345 Whose wanted Presence I can only mourn; Your common Gift shall two large Goblets be, Of Silver, wrought with curious Imagery; And high emboss'd, which, when old Priam reign'd, My conqu'ring Sire at sack'd Arisba gain'd.Line 350 And more, two Tripods cast in antick Mould, With two great Talents of the finest Gold: Beside a costly Bowl, ingrav'd with Art, Which Dido gave, when first she gave her Heart. But if in conquer'd Italy we reign,Line 355 When Spoils by Lot the Victor shall obtain; Thou saw'st the Courser by proud Turnus press'd, That, Nisus, and his Arms, and nodding Crest, And Shield, from Chance exempt, shall be thy Share; Twelve lab'ring Slaves, twelve Handmaids young and fair,Line 360 All clad in rich Attire, and train'd with Care.

And last, a Latian Field with fruitful Plains; And a large Portion of the King's Domains. But thou, whose Years are more to mine ally'd, No Fate my vow'd Affection shall divideLine 365 From thee, Heroick Youth; be wholly mine: Take full Possession; all my Soul is thine. One Faith, one Fame, one Fate shall both attend; My Life's Companion, and my Bosom Friend. My Peace shall be committed to thy Care,Line 370 And to thy Conduct, my Concerns in War.

Then thus the young Euryalus reply'd; Whatever Fortune, good or bad betide, The same shall be my Age, as now my Youth; No time shall find me wanting to my Truth.Line 375 This only from your Goodness let me gain; (And this ungranted, all Rewards are vain) Of Priam's Royal Race my Mother came; And sure the best that ever bore the Name: Whom neither Troy, nor Sicily cou'd holdLine 380 From me departing, but o'respent, and old, My Fate she follow'd; ignorant of this, Whatever Danger, neither parting Kiss, Nor pious Blessing taken, her I leave; And, in this only Act of all my Life deceive.Line 385 By this right Hand, and conscious Night I swear, My Soul so sad a farewel could not bear. Be you her Comfort; fill my vacant place, (Permit me to presume so great a Grace) Support her Age, forsaken and distress'd,Line 390 That hope alone will fortifie my Breast Against the worst of Fortunes, and of Fears. He said: The mov'd Assistants melt in Tears.

Then thus Ascanius, (wonder-struck to see That Image of his filial Piety;)Line 395

So great Beginnings, in so green an Age, Exact the Faith, which I again ingage. Thy Mother all the Dues shall justly claim Creusa had; and only want the Name. Whate're Event thy bold Attempt shall have,Line 400 'Tis Merit to have born a Son so brave. Now by my Head, a sacred Oath, I swear, (My Father us'd it) what returning here Crown'd with Success, I for thy self prepare, That, if thou fail, shall thy lov'd Mother share.Line 405

He said; and weeping while he spoke the Word, From his broad Belt he drew a shining Sword, Magnificent with Gold. Lycaon made, And in an Iv'ry Scabbard sheath'd the Blade: This was his Gift: Great Mnestheus gave his FriendLine 410 A Lyon's Hide, his Body to defend: And good Alethes furnish'd him beside, With his own trusty Helm, of Temper try'd.

Thus arm'd they went. The Noble Trojans wait Their issuing forth, and follow to the Gate.Line 415 With Prayers and Vows, above the rest appears Ascanius, manly far beyond his Years. And Messages committed to their Care, Which all in Winds were lost, and flitting Air.

The Trenches first they pass'd: Then took their WayLine 420 Where their proud Foes in pitch'd Pavilions lay; To many fatal, e're themselves were slain: They found the careless Hoast dispers'd upon the Plain. Who gorg'd, and drunk with Wine, supinely snore; Unharnass'd Chariots stand along the Shore:Line 425 Amidst the Wheels and Reins, the Goblet by, A Medly of Debauch and War they lye. Observing Nisus shew'd his Friend the sight; Behold a Conquest gain'd without a Fight.

[illustration]

To y^e Hon^ble: Colonel George Cholmondeley Colonel of his Majestys Troop of Granadier Guards & Groome of his Maj^ties: Bedchamber

AE. 9. l. 435.

Occasion offers, and I stand prepar'd;Line 430 There lies our Way; be thou upon the Guard, And look around; while I securely go, And a hew Passage, thro the sleeping Foe. Softly he spoke; then striding, took his way, With his drawn Sword, where haughty Rhamnes lay:Line 435 His Head rais'd high, on Tapestry beneath, And heaving from his Breast, he drew his Breath: A King and Prophet by King Turnus lov'd; But Fate by Prescience cannot be remov'd. Him, and his sleeping Slaves he slew. Then spiesLine 440 Where Rhemus, with his rich Retinue lies: His Armor-bearer first, and next he kills His Charioteer, intrench'd betwixt the Wheels And his lov'd Horses: Last invades their Lord; Full on his Neck he drives the fatal Sword:Line 445 The gasping Head flies off; a Purple flood Flows from the Trunk, that welters in the Blood: Which by the spurning Heels, dispers'd around, The Bed besprinkles, and bedews the Ground. Lamus the bold, and Lamyrus the strong,Line 450 He slew; and then Serranus fair and young: From Dice and Wine the Youth retir'd to Rest, And puff'd the fumy God from out his Breast: Ev'n then he dreamt of Drink and lucky Play; More lucky had it lasted 'till the Day.Line 455

The famish'd Lyon thus, with Hunger bold; O'releaps the Fences of the Nightly Fold; And tears the peaceful Flocks: With silent Awe Trembling they lye, and pant beneath his Paw.

Nor with less Rage Euryalus employsLine 460 The wrathful Sword, or fewer Foes destroys: But on th' ignoble Crowd his Fury flew: He Fadus, Hebesus, and Rhaetus slew.

Oppress'd with heavy Sleep the former fall, But Rhoetus wakeful, and observing all:Line 465 Behind a spacious Jarr he slink'd for fear; The fatal Iron found, and reach'd him there. For as he rose, it pierc'd his naked side; And reeking, thence return'd in Crimson dy'd. The Wound pours out a Stream of Wine and Blood,Line 470 The Purple Soul comes floating in the flood.

Now where Messapus Quarter'd they arrive; The Fires were fainting there, and just alive. The Warriour-Horses ty'd in order fed; Nisus observ'd the Discipline, and said,Line 475 Our eager thirst of Blood may both betray; And see the scatter'd Streaks of dawning day, Foe to Nocturnal Thefts: No more, my Friend, Here let our glutted Execution end: A Lane through slaughter'd Bodies we have made:Line 480 The bold Euryalus, tho' loath, obey'd. Of Arms, and Arras, and of Plate they find A precious load; but these they leave behind. Yet fond of gaudy Spoils the Boy wou'd stay To make the rich Caparison his prey,Line 485 Which on the steed of conquer'd Rhamnes lay. Nor did his Eyes less longingly behold The Girdle-Belt, with Nails of burnish'd Gold. This Present Cedicus the Rich, bestow'd On Remulus, when Friendship first they vow'd:Line 490 And absent, join'd in hospitable tyes; He dying, to his Heir bequeath'd the Prize: Till by the Conqu'ring Ardean Troops oppress'd He fell; and they the Glorious Gift possess'd. These Glitt'ring Spoils (now made the Victor's gain)Line 495 He to his body suits; but suits in vain.

Messapus Helm he finds among the rest, And laces on, and wears the waving Crest. Proud of their Conquest, prouder of their Prey, They leave the Camp; and take the ready way.Line 500

But far they had not pass'd, before they spy'd Three hundred Horse with Volscens for their Guide. The Queen a Legion to King Turnus sent, But the swift Horse the slower Foot outwent; And now advancing, sought the Leader's Tent.Line 505 They saw the Pair; for thro' the doubtful shade His shineing Helm Euryalus betray'd, On which the Moon with full reflexion play'd. 'Tis not for nought, cry'd Volscens, from the Crow'd, These Men go there; then rais'd his Voice aloud:Line 510 Stand, stand: why thus in Arms, and whither bent; From whence, to whom, and on what Errand sent? Silent they scud away, and haste their flight, To Neighb'ring Woods, and trust themselves to night. The speedy Horse all passages belay,Line 515 And spur their smoaking Steeds to Cross their way; And watch each Entrance of the winding Wood; Black was the Forest, thick with Beech it stood: Horrid with Fern, and intricate with Thorn, Few Paths of Humane Feet or Tracks of Beasts were wornLine 520 The darkness of the Shades, his heavy Prey, And Fear, mis-led the Younger from his way. But Nisus hit the Turns with happier haste, And thoughtless of his Friend, the Forest pass'd: And Alban Plains, from Alba's Name so call'd,Line 525 Where King Latinus then his Oxen stall'd. Till turning at the length, he stood his ground, And miss'd his Friend, and cast his Eyes around; Ah Wretch, he cry'd, where have I left behind Th' unhappy Youth, where shall I hope to find?Line 530

Or what way take! again He ventures back: And treads the Mazes of his former track. He winds the Wood, and list'ning hears the noise Of trampling Coursers, and the Riders voice. The sound approach'd, and suddenly he view'dLine 535 The Foes inclosing, and his Friend pursu'd: Forelay'd and taken, while he strove in vain, The shelter of the friendly Shades to gain. What shou'd he next attempt! what Arms employ, What fruitless Force to free the Captive Boy?Line 540 Or desperate shou'd he rush and lose his Life, With odds oppress'd, in such unequal strife? Resolv'd at length, his pointed Spear he shook; And casting on the Moon a mournful look, Guardian of Groves, and Goddess of the Night;Line 545 Fair, Queen, he said, direct my Dart aright: If e're my Pious Father for my sake Did grateful Off'rings on thy Altars make; Or I increas'd them with my Silvan toils, And hung thy Holy Roofs, with Salvage Spoils;Line 550 Give me to scatter these. Then from his Ear He poiz'd, and aim'd, and lanch'd the trembling Spear. The deadly Weapon, hiffing from the Grove, Impetuous on the back of Sulmo drove: Pierc'd his thin Armour, drank his Vital Blood,Line 555 And in his Body left the broken Wood. He staggers round, his Eyeballs rowl in Death, And with short sobs he gasps away his Breath. All stand amaz'd; a second Jav'lin flies, With equal strength, and quivers through the Skies;Line 560 This through thy Temples, Tagus, forc'd the way, And in the Brain-pan warmly bury'd lay. Fierce Volscens foams with Rage, and gazing round, Descry'd not him who gave the Fatal Wound:

[illustration]

To S^r: Ioⁿ Percivalé Bar^t. of Barton in the County of Corke in Ireland

AE. 9. l. 590

Nor knew to fix Revenge: but thou, he cries,Line 565 Shalt pay for both, and at the Pris'ner flies, With his drawn Sword. Then struck with deep Despair, That cruel sight the Lover cou'd not bear: But from his Covert rush'd in open view, And sent his Voice before him as he flew.Line 570 Me, me, he cry'd, turn all your Swords alone On me; the Fact confess'd, the Fault my own. He neither cou'd nor durst, the guiltless Youth; Ye Moon and Stars bear Witness to the Truth! His only Crime, (if Friendship can offend,)Line 575 Is too much Love; to his unhappy Friend. Too late he speaks; the Sword, which Fury guides, Driv'n with full Force, had pierc'd his tender Sides. Down fell the beauteous Youth; the yawning Wound Gush'd out a Purple Stream, and stain'd the Ground.Line 580 His snowy Neck reclines upon his Breast, Like a fair Flow'r by the keen Share oppress'd: Like a white Poppy sinking on the Plain, Whose heavy Head is overcharg'd with Rain. Despair, and Rage, and Vengeance justly vow'd,Line 585 Drove Nisus headlong on the hostile Crowd: Volscens he seeks; on him alone he bends; Born back, and bor'd, by his surrounding Friends, Onward he press'd: and kept him still in sight; Then whirl'd aloft his Sword, with all his might:Line 590 Th' unnerring Steel descended while he spoke; Pierc'd his wide Mouth, and thro' his Weazon broke: Dying, he flew; and stagg'ring on the Plain, With smimming Eyes he sought his Lover slain: Then quiet on his bleeding Bosom fell;Line 595 Content in Death, to be reveng'd so well.

O happy Friends! for if my Verse can give Immortal Life, your Fame shall ever live:

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Fix'd as the Capitol's Foundation lies; And spread, where e're the Roman Eagle flies!Line 600

The conqu'ring Party, first divide the Prey, Then their slain General to the Camp convey. With Wonder, as they went, the Troops were fill'd, To see such Numbers whom so few had kill'd. Serranus, Rhamnes, and the rest they found;Line 605 Vast Crowds the dying and the dead surround: And the yet reeking Blood o'reflows the Ground. All knew the Helmet which Messapus lost; But mourn'd a Purchase, that so dear had cost. Now rose the ruddy Morn from Tithon's Bed;Line 610 And with the Dawns of Day the Skies o'respread. Nor long the Sun his daily Course withheld, But added Colours to the World reveal'd. When early Turnus wak'ning with the Light, All clad in Armour calls his Troops to fight.Line 615 His Martial Men with fierce Harangues he fir'd; And his own Ardor, in their Souls inspir'd. This done, to give new Terror to his Foes, The Heads of Nisus, and his Friend he shows, Rais'd high on pointed Spears: A ghastly Sight;Line 620 Loud peals of Shouts ensue, and barbarous Delight.

Mean time the Trojans run, where Danger calls, They line their Trenches, and they man their Walls: In Front extended to the left they stood: Safe was the right surrounded by the Flood.Line 625 But casting from their Tow'rs a frightful view, They saw the Faces, which too well they knew; Tho' then disguis'd in Death, and smear'd all o're With Filth obscene, and dropping putrid Gore. Soon hasty Fame, thro' the sad City bearsLine 630 The mournful Message to the Mother's Ears:

An icy Cold benums her Limbs: She shakes: Her Cheeks the Blood, her Hand the Web forsakes. She runs the Rampires round amidst the War, Nor fears the flying Darts: She rends her Hair,Line 635 And fills with loud Laments the liquid Air. Thus then, my lov'd Euryalus appears; Thus looks the Prop of my declining Years! Was't on this Face, my famish'd Eyes I fed, Ah how unlike the living, is the dead!Line 640 And cou'dst thou leave me, cruel, thus alone, Not one kind Kiss from a departing Son! No Look, no last adieu before he went, In an ill-boding Hour to Slaughter sent! Cold on the Ground, and pressing foreign Clay,Line 645 To Latian Dogs, and Fowls he lies a Prey! Nor was I near to close his dying Eyes, To wash his Wounds, to weep his Obsequies: To call about his Corps his crying Friends, Or spread the Mantle, (made for other ends,)Line 650 On his dear Body, which I wove with Care, Nor did my daily Pains, or nightly labour spare. Where shall I find his Corps, what Earth sustains His Trunk dismember'd, and his cold Remains? For this, alas, I left my needful Ease,Line 655 Expos'd my Life to Winds, and winter Seas! If any pity touch Rutulian Hearts, Here empty all your Quivers, all your Darts: Or if they fail, thou Jove conclude my Woe, And send me Thunder-struck to Shades below!Line 660

Her Shrieks and Clamours, pierce the Trojans Ears, Unman their Courage, and augment their Fears: Nor young Ascanius cou'd the sight sustain, Nor old Ilioneus his Tears restrain: Line 665

But Actor and Idoeus, jointly sent,Line 665 To bear the madding Mother to her Tent. And now the Trumpets terribly from far, With rattling Clangor, rouze the sleepy War. The Souldiers Shouts succeed the Brazen Sounds; And Heav'n, from Pole to Pole, the Noise rebounds.Line 670 The Volscians bear their Shields upon their Head, And rushing forward, from a moving Shed; These fill the Ditch, those pull the Bulwarks down: Some raise the Ladders, others scale the Town. But where void Spaces on the Walls appear,Line 675 Or thin Defence, they pour their Forces there. With Poles and missive Weapons from afar, The Trojans keep aloof the rising War. Taught by their ten Years Siege defensive fight; They rowl down Ribs of Rocks, an unresisted Weight:Line 680 To break the Penthouse with the pond'rous Blow; Which yet the patient Volscians undergo. But cou'd not bear th' unequal Combat long; For where the Trojans find the thickest Throng, The Ruin falls: Their shatter'd Shields give way,Line 685 And their crush'd Heads become an easie Prey. They shrink for Fear, abated of their Rage, Nor longer dare in a blind Fight engage. Contented now to gaul them from below With Darts and Slings, and with the distant Bow.Line 690

Elsewhere Mezentius, terrible to view, A blazing Pine within the Trenches threw. But brave Messapus, Neptune's warlike Son, Broke down the Palisades, the Trenches Won, And loud for Ladders calls, to scale the Town.

Calliope begin: Ye sacred Nine, Inspire your Poet in his high Design;

To sing what Slaughter manly Turnus made: What Souls he sent below the Stygian Shade. What Fame the Souldiers with their Captain share,Line 700 And the vast Circuit of the fatal War. For you in singing Martial Facts excel; You best remember; and alone can tell.

There stood a Tow'r, amazing to the sight, Built up of Beams; and of stupendous height;Line 705 Art, and the nature of the Place conspir'd, To furnish all the Strength, that War requir'd. To level this, the bold Italians join; The wary Trojans obviate their design: With weighty Stones o'rewhelm their Troops below,Line 710 Shoot through the Loopholes, and sharp Jav'lins throw. Turnus, the Chief, toss'd from his thund'ring Hand, Against the wooden Walls, a flaming Brand: It stuck, the fiery Plague: The Winds were high; The Planks were season'd, and the Timber dry.Line 715 Contagion caught the Posts: It spread along, Scorch'd, and to distance drove the scatter'd Throng. The Trojans fled; the Fire pursu'd amain, Still gath'ring fast upon the trembling Train; Till crowding to the Corners of the Wall,Line 720 Down the Defence, and the Defenders fall. The mighty flaw makes Heav'n it self resound, The Dead, and dying Trojans strew the Ground. The Tow'r that follow'd on the fallen Crew, Whelm'd o're their Heads, and bury'd whom it slew:Line 725 Some stuck upon the Darts themselves had sent; All, the same equal Ruin underwent.

Young Lycus and Helenor only scape; Sav'd, how they know not, from the steepy Leap. Helenor, elder of the two; by Birth,Line 730 On one side Royal, one a Son of Earth,

Whom to the Lydian King, Lycimnia bare, And sent her boasted Bastard to the War: (A Priviledge which none but Free-men share.) Slight were his Arms, a Sword and Silver Shield,Line 735 No Marks of Honour charg'd its empty Field. Light as he fell, so light the Youth arose, And rising found himself amidst his Foes. Nor flight was left, nor hopes to force his Way; Embolden'd by Despair, he stood at Bay:Line 740 And like a Stag, whom all the Troop surrounds Of eager Huntsmen, and invading Hounds; Resolv'd on Death, he dissipates his Fears, And bounds aloft, against the pointed Spears: So dares the Youth, secure of Death; and throwsLine 745 His dying Body, on his thickest Foes.

But Lycus, swifter of his Feet, by far, Runs, doubles, winds and turns, amidst the War: Springs to the Walls, and leaves his Foes behind, And snatches at the Beam he first can find.Line 750 Looks up, and leaps aloft at all the stretch, In hopes the helping Hand of some kind Friend to reach. But Turnus follow'd hard his hunted Prey, (His Spear had almost reach'd him in the way, Short of his Reins, and scarce a Span behind,)Line 755 Fool, said the Chief, tho' fleeter than the Wind, Coud'st thou presume to scape, when I pursue? He said, and downward by the Feet he drew The trembling Dastard: at the Tug he falls, Vast Ruins come along, rent from the smoking Walls.Line 760 Thus on some silver Swan, or tim'rous Hare, Jove's Bird comes sowsing down, from upper Air; Her crooked Tallons truss the fearful Prey: Then out of sight she soars, and wings her way. Line 765

Line 765

Line 765

So seizes the grim Wolf the tender Lamb,Line 765 In vain lamented by the bleating Dam.

Then rushing onward, with a barbr'ous cry, The Troops of Turnus to the Combat fly. The Ditch with Faggots fill'd, the daring Foe Toss'd Firebrands to the steepy Turrets throw.Line 770

Ilioneus, as bold Lucetius came To force the Gate, and feed the kindling Flame, Rowl'd down the Fragment of a Rock so right, It crush'd him double underneath the weight. Two more young Liger and Asylas slew;Line 775 To bend the Bow young Liger better knew; Asylas best the pointed Jav'lin threw. Brave Caeneus laid Ortygius on the Plain, The Victor Caeneus was by Turnus slain. By the same Hand, Clonius and Itys fall,Line 780 Sagar, and Ida, standing on the Wall. From Capys Arms his Fate Privernus found; Hurt by Themilla first; but slight the Wound; His Shield thrown by, to mitigate the smart, He clap'd his Hand upon the wounded part:Line 785 The second Shaft came swift and unespy'd, And pierc'd his Hand, and nail'd it to his side: Transfix'd his breathing Lungs, and beating heart; The Soul came issuing out, and hiss'd against the Dart.

The Son of Arcens shone amid the rest,Line 790 In glitt'ring Armour, and a Purple Vest. Fair was his Face, his Eyes inspiring Love, Bred by his Father in the Martian Grove; Where the fat Altars of Palicus flame, And sent in Arms to purchase early Fame.Line 795 Him, when he spy'd from far the Thuscan King, Laid by the Lance, and took him to the Sling:

Thrice whirl'd the Thong around his head, and threw: The heated Lead half melted as it flew: It pierc'd his hollow Temples and his Brain;Line 800 The Youth came tumbling down, and spurn'd the Plain.

Then Young Ascanius, who before this day Was wont in Woods to shoot the salvage Prey, First bent in Martial Strife, the twanging Bow; And exercis'd against a Humane Foe.Line 805 With this bereft Numanus of his life, Who Turnus younger Sister took to Wife. Proud of his Realm, and of his Royal Bride, Vaunting before his Troops, and lengthen'd with a Stride, In these Insulting terms, the Trojans he defy'd.Line 810 Twice Conquer'd Cowards, now your shame is shown, Coop'd up a second time within your Town! Who dare not issue forth in open Field, But hold your Walls before you for a Shield: Thus threat you War, thus our Alliance force!Line 815 What Gods what madness hether steer'd your Course! You shall not find the Sons of Atreus here, Nor need the Frauds of sly Ulysses fear. Strong from the Cradle, of a sturdy Brood, We bear our new-born Infants to the Flood;Line 820 There bath'd amid the Stream, our Boys we hold, With Winter harden'd, and inur'd to Cold. They wake before the Day to range the Wood, Kill e're they eat, nor tast unconquer'd Food. No Sports, but what belong to War they know,Line 825 To break the stubborn Colt, to bend the Bow. Our youth, of Labour patient, earn their Bread; Hardly they work, with frugal Diet fed. From Ploughs and Harrows sent to seek Renown, They fight in Fields, and storm the shaken Town.Line 830

No part of Life from Toils of War is free; No change in Age, or diff'rence in Degree. We plow, and till in Arms; our Oxen feel, Instead of Goads, the Spur, and pointed Steel: Th' inverted Lance makes Furrows in the Plain;Line 835 Ev'n time that changes all, yet changes us in vain: The Body, not the Mind: Nor can controul Th' immortal Vigour, or abate the Soul. Our Helms defend the Young, disguise the Grey: We live by Plunder, and delight in Prey.Line 840 Your Vests embroyder'd with rich Purple shine; In Sloth you Glory, and in Dances join. Your Vests have sweeping Sleeves: With female Pride, Your Turbants underneath your Chins are ty'd. Go, Phrygians, to your Dindymus agen;Line 845 Go, less than Women, in the Shapes of Men. Go, mix'd with Eunuchs, in the Mother's Rites, Where with unequal Sound the Flute invites. Sing, dance, and howl by turns in Ida's Shade; Resign the War to Men, who know the Martial Trade.Line 850

This foul Reproach, Ascanius cou'd not hear With Patience, or a vow'd Revenge forbear. At the full stretch of both his Hands, he drew, And almost join'd the Horns of the tough Eugh. But first, before the Throne of Jove he stood;Line 855 And thus with lifted Hands invok'd the God. My first Attempt, great Jupiter succeed; An annual Off'ring in thy Grove shall bleed: A snow-white Steer, before thy Altar led, Who like his Mother bears aloft his Head,Line 860 Buts with his threatning Brows, and bellowing stands, And dares the Fight, and spurns the yellow Sands.

Jove bow'd the Heav'ns, and lent a gracious Ear, And thunder'd on the left, amidst the clear. Line 865

Sounded at once the Bow; and swiftly fliesLine 865 The feather'd Death, and hisfes thro' the Skies. The Steel thro' both his Temples forc'd the way: Extended on the Ground, Numanus lay. Go now, vain Boaster, and true Valour scorn; The Phrygians twice subdu'd, yet make this third Return.Line 870 Ascanius said no more: The Trojans shake The Heav'ns with Shouting, and new Vigour take.

Apollo then bestrode a Golden Cloud, To view the feats of Arms, and fighting Crowd; And thus the beardless Victor, he bespoke aloud.Line 875 Advance Illustrious Youth, increase in Fame, And wide from East to West extend thy Name. Offspring of Gods thy self; and Rome shall owe To thee, a Race of Demigods below. This is the Way to Heav'n: The Pow'rs DivineLine 880 From this beginning date the Julian Line. To thee, to them, and their victorious Heirs, The conquer'd War is due; and the vast World is theirs. Troy is too narrow for thy Name. He said, And plunging downward shot his radiant Head;Line 885 Dispell'd the breathing Air, that broke his Flight, Shorn of his Beams, a Man to Mortal sight. Old Butes Form he took, Anchises Squire, Now left to rule Ascanius, by his Sire: His wrinkled Visage, and his hoary Hairs,Line 890 His Meen, his Habit, and his Arms he wears; And thus salutes the Boy, too forward for his Years. Suffice it thee, thy Father's worthy Son, The warlike Prize thou hast already won: The God of Archers gives thy Youth a partLine 895 Of his own Praise; nor envies equal Art. Now tempt the War no more. He said, and flew Obscure in Air, and vanish'd from their view.

The Trojans, by his Arms, their Patron know; And hear the twanging of his Heav'nly Bow.Line 900 Then duteous Force they use; and Phoebus Name, To keep from Fight, the Youth too fond of Fame. Undaunted they themselves no Danger shun: From Wall to Wall, the Shouts and Clamours run. They bend their Bows; they whirl their Slings around:Line 905 Heaps of spent Arrows fall; and strew the Ground; And Helms, and Shields, and ratling Arms resound. The Combate thickens, like the Storm that flies From Westward, when the Show'ry Kids arise: Or patt'ring Hail comes pouring on the Main,Line 910 When Jupiter descends in harden'd Rain. Or bellowing Clouds burst with a stormy Sound, And with an armed Winter strew the Ground.

Pand'rus and Bitias, Thunder-bolts of War, Whom Hiera, to bold Alcanor bareLine 915 On Ida's Top, two Youths of Height and Size, Like Firrs that on their Mother Mountain rise; Presuming on their Force, the Gates unbar, And of their own Accord invite the War. With Fates averse, against their King's Command,Line 920 Arm'd on the right, and on the left they stand; And flank the Passage: Shining Steel they wear, And waving Crests, above their Heads appear. Thus two tall Oaks, that Padus Banks adorn, Lift up to Heav'n their leafy Heads unshorn;Line 925 And overpress'd with Nature's heavy load, Dance to the whistling Winds, and at each other nod. In flows a Tyde of Latians, when they see The Gate set open, and the Passage free. Bold Quercens, with rash Tmarus rushing on,Line 930 Equicolus, that in bright Armour shone,

And Haemon first, but soon repuls'd they fly, Or in the well-defended Pass they dye. These with Success are fir'd, and those with Rage; And each on equal Terms at length ingage.Line 935 Drawn from their Lines, and issuing on the Plain, The Trojans hand to hand the Fight maintain.

Fierce Turnus in another Quarter fought, When suddenly th' unhop'd for News was brought; The Foes had left the fastness of their Place,Line 940 Prevail'd in Fight, and had his Men in Chace. He quits th' Attack, and, to prevent their Fate, Runs, where the Gyant Brothers guard the Gate. The first he met, Antiphates the brave, But base begotten on a Theban Slave;Line 945 Sarpedon's Son he slew: The deadly Dart Found Passage thro' his Breast, and pierc'd his Heart. Fix'd in the Wound th' Italian Cornel stood; Warm'd in his Lungs, and in his vital Blood. Aphidnus next, and Erymanthus dies,Line 950 And Meropes, and the Gygantick Size Of Bitias, threat'ning with his ardent Eyes. Not by the feeble Dart he fell oppress'd, A Dart were lost, within that roomy Breast; But from a knotted Lance, large, heavy, strong;Line 955 Which roar'd like Thunder as it whirl'd along: Not two Bull-hides th' impetuous Force withhold; Nor Coat of double Male, with Scales of Gold. Down sunk the Monster-Bulk, and press'd the Ground; His Arms and clatt'ring Shield, on the vast Body sound.Line 960 Not with less Ruin, than the Bajan Mole, (Rais'd on the Seas the Surges to controul,) At once comes tumbling down the rocky Wall, Prone to the Deep the Stones disjointed fall, Line 965

Of the vast Pile; the scatter'd Ocean flies;Line 965 Black Sands, discolour'd Froth, and mingled Mud arise. The frighted Billows rowl, and seek the Shores: Then trembles Prochyta, then Ischia roars: Typhoeus thrown beneath, by Jove's Command, Astonish'd at the Flaw, that shakes the Land,Line 970 Soon shifts his weary Side, and scarce awake, With Wonder feels the weight press lighter on his Back.

The Warrior God the Latian Troops inspir'd; New strung their Sinews, and their Courage fir'd: But chills the Trojan Hearts with cold Affright;Line 975 Then black Despair precipitates their Flight.

When Pandarus beheld his Brother kill'd, The Town with Fear, and wild Confusion fill'd, He turns the Hindges of the heavy Gate With both his Hands; and adds his Shoulders to the weight.Line 980 Some happier Friends, within the Walls inclos'd; The rest shut out, to certain Death expos'd. Fool as he was, and frantick in his Care, T' admit young Turnus, and include the War. He thrust amid the Crowd, securely bold;Line 985 Like a fierce Tyger pent amid the Fold. Too late his blazing Buckler they descry; And sparkling Fires that shot from either Eye: His mighty Members, and his ample Breast, His ratt'ling Armour, and his Crimson Crest.Line 990

Far from that hated Face the Trojans fly; All but the Fool who sought his Destiny. Mad Pandarus steps forth, with Vengeance vow'd For Bitias's Death, and threatens thus aloud. These are not Ardea's Walls, nor this the TownLine 995 Amata proffers with Lavinia's Crown: 'Tis hostile Earth you tread; of hope bereft, No means of safe Return by flight are left.

To whom with Count'nance calm, and Soul sedate, Thus Turnus: Then begin; and try thy Fate:Line 1000 My Message to the Ghost of Priam bear, Tell him a new Achilles sent thee there.

A Lance of tough ground-Ash the Trojan threw, Rough in the Rind, and knotted as it grew, With his full force he whirl'd it first around;Line 1005 But the soft yielding Air receiv'd the wound: Imperial Juno turn'd the Course before; And fix'd the wand'ring Weapon in the door.

But hope not thou, said Turnus, when I strike, To shun thy Fate, our Force is not alike:Line 1010 Nor thy Steel temper'd by the Lemnian God: Then rising, on is utmost stretch he stood: And aim'd from high, the full descending blow Cleaves the broad Front, and beardless Cheeks in two: Down sinks the Giant with a thund'ring sound,Line 1015 His pond'rous Limbs oppress the trembling ground; Blood, Brains, and Foam, gush from the gaping Wound. Scalp, Face, and Shoulders, the keen Steel divides; And the shar'd Visage hangs on equal sides. The Trojans fly from their approaching Fate:Line 1020 And had the Victor then secur'd the Gate, And, to his Troops without, unclos'd the Barrs; One lucky Day had ended all his Wars. But boiling Youth, and blind Desire of Blood, Push'd on his Fury, to pursue the Crowd:Line 1025 Hamstring'd behind unhappy Gyges dy'd; Then Phalaris is added to his side: The pointed Jav'lins from the dead he drew, And their Friends Arms against their Fellows threw. Strong Halys stands in vain; weak Phlegys flies;Line 1030 Saturnia, still at hand, new Force and Fire supplies.

[illustration]

To M^r John Clos Jerman

AE. 9. l. 1010.

Then Halius, Prytanis, Alcander fall; (Ingag'd against the Foes who scal'd the Wall:) But whom they fear'd without, they found within: At last, tho' late, by Linceus he was seen.Line 1035 He calls new Succours, and assaults the Prince, But weak his Force, and vain is their Defence. Turn'd to the right, his Sword the Heroe drew; And at one blow the bold Aggressor slew. He joints the Neck: And with a stroke so strongLine 1040 The Helm flies off; and bears the Head along. Next him, the Huntsman Amycus he kill'd, In Darts, invenom'd, and in Poyson skill'd. Then Clytius fell beneath his fatal Spear, And Creteus, whom the Muses held so dear:Line 1045 He fought with Courage, and he sung the fight: Arms were his buis'ness, Verses his delight.

The Trojan Chiefs behold, with Rage and Grief, Their slaughter'd Friends, and hasten their Relief. Bold Mnestheus rallies first the broken Train,Line 1050 Whom brave Seresthus, and his Troop sustain. To save the living, and revenge the dead; Aginst one Warriour's Arms all Troy they led. O, void of Sense and Courage, Mnestheus cry'd, Where can you hope your Coward Heads to hide?Line 1055 Ah, where beyond these Rampires can you run! One Man, and in your Camp inclos'd, you shun! Shall then a single Sword such Slaughter boast, And pass unpunish'd from a Num'rous Hoast? Forsaking Honour, and renouncing Fame,Line 1060 Your Gods, your Country, and your King you shame.

This just Reproach their Vertue does excite, They stand, they joyn, they thicken to the Fight.

Now Turnus doubts, and yet disdains to yield; But with slow paces measures back the Field.Line 1065

And Inches to the Walls, where Tyber's Tide, Washing the Camp, defends the weaker side. The more he loses, they advance the more; And tread in ev'ry Step he trod before. They showt, they bear him back, and whom by MightLine 1070 They cannot Conquer, they oppress with Weight.

As compass'd with a Wood of Spears around, The Lordly Lyon, still maintains his Ground. Grins horrible, retires, and turns again; Threats his distended Paws, and shakes his Mane;Line 1075 He loses while in vain he presses on, Nor will his Courage let him dare to run: So Turnus fares; and unresolv'd of flight, Moves tardy back, and just recedes from fight. Yet twice, inrag'd, the Combat he renews;Line 1080 Twice breaks, and twice his broken Foes pursues: But now they swarm; and with fresh Troops supply'd, Come rowling on, and rush from ev'ry side. Nor Juno, who sustain'd his Arms before, Dares with new strength suffice th' exhausted store.Line 1085 For Jove, with sour Commands, sent Iris down, To force th' Invader from the frighted Town.

With Labour spent, no Longer can he wield The heavy Fauchion, or sustain the Shield: O'rewhelm'd with Darts, which from afar they fling,Line 1090 The Weapons round his hollow Temples ring: His golden Helm gives way: with stony blows Batter'd, and flat, and beaten to his Brows. His Crest is rash'd away; his ample Shield Is falsify'd, and round with Jav'lins fill'd.Line 1095

The Foe now faint, the Trojans overwhelm: And Mnestheus lays hard load upon his Helm. Sick sweat succeeds, he drops at ev'ry pore, With driving Dust his Cheeks are pasted o're. Line 1100

Shorter and shorter ev'ry Gasp he takes,Line 1100 And vain Efforts, and hurtless Blows he makes. Arm'd as he was, at length, he leap'd from high; Plung'd in the Flood, and made the Waters fly. The yellow God, the welcome Burthen bore, And wip'd the Sweat, and wash'd away the Gore:Line 1105 Then gently wafts him to the farther Coast; And sends him safe to chear his anxious Hoast.

The Tenth Book of the Aeneis.

Jupiter calling a Council of the Gods, forbids them to engage in ei∣ther Party. At Aeneas's return there is a bloody Battel: Turnus killing Pallas; Aeneas, Lausus and Mezentius. Mezentius is describ'd as an Atheist; Lausus as a pious and virtuous Youth: The different Actions and Death of these two, are the Subject of a Noble Episode.

THE Gates of Heav'n unfold; Jove summons all The Gods to Council, in the Common Hall. Sublimely seated, he surveys from far The Fields, the Camp, the Fortune of the War; And all th' inferior World: From first to lastLine 5 The Sov'raign Senate in Degrees are plac'd.

Then thus th' Almighty Sire began. Ye Gods, Natives, or Denizons, of blest Abodes; From whence these Murmurs, and this change of Mind, This backward Fate from what was first design'd?Line 10 Why this protracted War? When my Commands Pronounc'd a Peace, and gave the Latian Lands. What Fear or Hope on either part divides Our Heav'ns, and arms our Pow'rs on diff'rent sides? A lawful Time of War at length will come,Line 15 (Nor need your haste anticipate the Doom,) When Carthage shall contest the World with Rome: Shall force the rigid Rocks, and Alpine Chains; And like a Flood come pouring on the Plains. Then is your time for Faction and Debate,Line 20 For partial Favour, and permitted Hate. Let now your immature Dissention cease; Sit quiet, and compose your Souls to Peace.

[illustration]

To y^e Right Hon^ble: Iohn L^d. Viscount Fitzharding of Beare-haven and Bawn Berkley of Rathdowne in y^e Kingdom of Ireland & Master of y^e Horse to Her Royall Highness the Princess Anne of Denmark

AE. 10. l. 1.

Thus Jupiter in few unfolds the Charge: But lovely Venus thus replies at large.Line 25 O Pow'r immense, Eternal Energy! (For to what else Protection can we fly,) Seest thou the proud Rutulians, how they dare In Fields, unpunish'd, and insult my Care? How lofty Turnus vaunts amidst his Train,Line 30 In shining Arms, triumphant on the Plain? Ev'n in their Lines and Trenches they contend; And scarce their Walls the Trojan Troops defend: The Town is fill'd with Slaughter, and o'refloats, With a red Deluge, their increasing Moats.Line 35 Aeneas ignorant, and far from thence, Has left a Camp expos'd, without Defence. This endless outrage shall they still sustain? Shall Troy renew'd be forc'd, and fir'd again? A second Siege my banish'd Issue fears,Line 40 And a new Diomede in Arms appears. One more audacious Mortal will be found; And I thy Daughter wait another Wound. Yet, if with Fates averse, without thy Leave, The Latian Lands my Progeny receive;Line 45 Bear they the Pains of violated Law, And thy Protection from their Aid withdraw. But if the Gods their sure Success foretel, If those of Heav'n consent with those of Hell, To promise Italy; who dare debateLine 50 The Pow'r of Jove, or fix another Fate? What shou'd I tell of Tempests on the Main, Of Eolus usurping Neptune's Reign? Of Iris sent; with Bachanalian Heat, T' inspire the Matrons, and destroy the Fleet.Line 55 Now Juno to the Stygian Sky descends, Sollicites Hell for Aid, and arms the Fiends.

That new Example wanted yet above: An Act that well became the Wife of Jove. Alecto, rais'd by her, with Rage inflamesLine 60 The peaceful Bosoms of the Latian Dames. Imperial Sway no more exalts my Mind: (Such hopes I had indeed, while Heav'n was kind) Now let my happier Foes possess my place, Whom Jove prefers before the Trojan Race;Line 65 And conquer they, whom you with Conquest grace. Since you can spare, from all your wide Command, No spot of Earth, no hospitable Land, Which may my wand'ring Fugitives receive; (Since haughty Juno will not give you leave)Line 70 Then, Father, (if I still may use that Name) By ruin'd Troy, yet smoking from the Flame, I beg you let Ascanius, by my Care, Be freed from Danger, and dismiss'd the War: Inglorious let him live, without a Crown;Line 75 The Father may be cast on Coasts unknown, Strugling with Fate; but let me save the Son. Mine is Cythera, mine the Cyprian Tow'rs; In those Recesses, and those sacred Bow'rs, Obscurely let him rest; his Right resignLine 80 To promis'd Empire, and his Julian Line. Then Carthage may th' Ausonian Towns destroy, Nor fear the Race of a rejected Boy. What profits it my Son, to scape the Fire, Arm'd with his Gods, and loaded with his Sire;Line 85 To pass the Perils of the Seas and Wind, Evade the Greeks, and leave the War behind; To reach th' Italian Shores: If after all, Our second Pergamus is doom'd to fall? Much better had he curb'd his high Desires,Line 90 And hover'd o're his ill extinguish'd Fires.

To Simois Banks the Fugitives restore, And give them back to War, and all the Woes before.

Deep indignation swell'd Saturnia's Heart: And must I own, she said, my secret Smart?Line 95 What with more decence were in silence kept, And but for this unjust Reproach had slept? Did God, or Man, your Fav'rite Son advise, With War unhop'd the Latians to surprise? By Fate you boast, and by the Gods Decree,Line 100 He left his Native Land for Italy: Confess the Truth; by mad Cassandra, more Than Heav'n, inspir'd, he sought a foreign Shore! Did I perswade to trust his second Troy, To the raw Conduct of a beardless Boy?Line 105 With Walls unfinish'd, which himself forsakes, And thro' the Waves a wand'ring Voyage makes? When have I urg'd him meanly to demand The Tuscan Aid, and arm a quiet Land? Did I or Iris give this mad Advice,Line 110 Or made the Fool himself the fatal Choice? You think it hard, the Latians shou'd destroy With Swords your Trojans, and with Fires your Troy: Hard and unjust indeed, for Men to draw Their Native Air, nor take a foreign Law:Line 115 That Turnus is permitted still to live, To whom his Birth a God and Goddess give: But yet 'tis just and lawful for your Line, To drive their Fields, and Force with Fraud to join. Realms, not your own, among your Clans divide,Line 120 And from the Bridegroom tear the promis'd Bride: Petition, while you publick Arms prepare; Pretend a Peace, and yet provoke a War. 'Twas giv'n to you, your darling Son to shrowd, To draw the Dastard from the fighting Crowd;Line 125 And for a Man obtend an empty Cloud.

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From flaming Fleets you turn'd the Fire away, And chang'd the Ships to Daughters of the Sea. But 'tis my Crime, the Queen of Heav'n offends, If she presume to save her suff'ring Friends.Line 130 Your Son, not knowing what his Foes decree, You say is absent: Absent let him be. Yours is Cythera, yours the Cyprian Tow'rs, The soft Recesses, and the Sacred Bow'rs. Why do you then these needless Arms prepare,Line 135 And thus provoke a People prone to War? Did I with Fire the Trojan Town deface, Or hinder from return your exil'd Race? Was I the Cause of Mischief, or the Man, Whose lawless Lust the bloody War began?Line 140 Think on whose Faith th' Adult'rous Youth rely'd; Who promis'd, who procur'd the Spartan Bride? When all th' united States of Greece combin'd, To purge the World of the perfidious Kind; Then was your time to fear the Trojan Fate:Line 145 Your Quarrels and Complaints are now too late.

Thus Juno. Murmurs rise, with mix'd Applause; Just as they favour, or dislike the Cause: So Winds, when yet unfledg'd in Woods they lie, In whispers first their tender Voices try:Line 150 Then issue on the Main with bellowing rage, And Storms to trembling Mariners presage.

Then thus to both reply'd th' Imperial God, Who shakes Heav'ns Axels with his awful Nod. (When he begins, the silent Senate standLine 155 With Rev'rence, list'ning to the dread Command: The Clouds dispel; the Winds their Breath restrain; And the hush'd Waves lie flatted on the Main.)

Coelestials! Your attentive Ears incline; Since, said the God, the Trojans must not joinLine 160 In wish'd Alliance with the Latian Line;

Since endless jarrings, and immortal Hate, Tend but to discompose our happy State; The War henceforward be resign'd to Fate. Each to his proper Fortune stand or fall,Line 165 Equal and unconcern'd I look on all. Rutulians, Trojans, are the same to me; And both shall draw the Lots their Fates decree. Let these assault; if Fortune be their Friend; And if she favours those, let those defend:Line 170 The Fates will find their way. The Thund'rer said; And shook the sacred Honours of his Head; Attesting Styx, th' Inviolable Flood, And the black Regions of his Brother God Trembled the Poles of Heav'n; and Earth confess'd the Nod.Line 175 This end the Sessions had: The Senate rise, And to his Palace wait their Sov'raign thro' the Skies.

Mean time, intent upon their Siege, the Foes Within their Walls the Trojan Hoast inclose: They wound, they kill, they watch at ev'ry Gate:Line 180 Renew the Fires, and urge their happy Fate.

Th' Aeneans wish in vain their wanted Chief, Hopeless of flight, more hopeless of Relief: Thin on the Tow'rs they stand; and ev'n thofe few, A feeble, fainting, and dejected Crew:Line 185 Yet in the face of Danger some there stood: The two bold Brothers of Sarpedon's Blood, Asius, and Acmon: both th' Assaraci; Young Haemon, and tho' young, resolv'd to dye. With these were Clarus and Thymaetes join'd;Line 190 Tibris and Castor, both of Lycian Kind. From Acmon's Hands a rowling Stone there came, So large, if half deserv'd a Mountain's Name: Strong sinew'd was the Youth, and big of Bone, His Brother Mnestheus cou'd not more have done:Line 195 Or the great Father of th' intrepid Son.

Some Firebrands throw, some flights of Arrows send; And some with Darts, and some with Stones defend.

Amid the Press appears the beauteous Boy, The Care of Venus, and the Hope of Troy.Line 200 His lovely Face unarm'd, his Head was bare, In ringlets o're his Shoulders hung his Hair. His Forehead circled with a Diadem; Distinguish'd from the Crowd, he shines a Gem, Enchas'd in Gold, or Polish'd Iv'ry set,Line 205 Amidst the meaner foil of sable Jett.

Nor Ismarus was wanting to the War, Directing Ointed Arrows from afar; And Death with Poyson arm'd: In Lydia born, Where plenteous Harvests the fat Fields adorn:Line 210 Where proud Pactolus floats the fruitful Lands, And leaves a rich manure of Golden Sands. There Capys, Author of the Capuan Name: And there was Mnestheus too increas'd in Fame: Since Turnus from the Camp He cast with shame.Line 215

Thus Mortal War was wag'd on either side, Mean time the Heroe cuts the Nightly Tyde. For, anxious, from Evander when he went, He sought the Tyrrhene Camp, and Tarchon's Tent; Expos'd the Cause of coming to the Chief;Line 220 His Name, and Country told, and ask'd Relief: Propos'd the Terms; his own small strength declar'd, What Vengeance proud Mezentius had prepar'd: What Turnus, bold and violent, design'd; Then shew'd the slippry state of Humane-kind,Line 225 And fickle Fortune; warn'd him to beware: And to his wholsom Counsel added Pray'r. Tarchon, without delay, the Treaty signs; And to the Trojan Troops the Tuscan joins.

They soon set sail; nor now the Fates withstand;Line 230 Their Forces trusted with a Foreign Hand. Aeneas leads; upon his Stern appear, Two Lyons carv'd, which rising Ida bear: Ida, to wand'ring Trojans ever dear. Under their grateful Shade Aeneas sate,Line 235 Revolving Wars Events, and various Fate. His left young Pallas kept, fix'd to his side, And oft of Winds enquir'd, and of the Tyde: Oft of the Stars, and of their wat'ry Way; And what he suffer'd both by Land and Sea.Line 240

Now sacred Sisters open all your Spring, The Tuscan Leaders, and their Army sing; Which follow'd great Aeneas to the War: Their Arms, their Numbers, and their Names declare.

A thousand Youths brave Massicus obey,Line 245 Born in the Tyger, thro' the foaming Sea; From Asium brought, and Cosa, by his Care; For Arms, light Quivers, Bows, and Shafts they bear. Fierce Abas next, his Men bright Armour wore; His Stern, Apollo's Golden Statue bore.Line 250 Six hundred Populonea sent along, All skill'd in Martial Exercise, and strong. Three hundred more for Battel Ilva joins, An Isle renown'd for Steel, and unexhausted Mines. Asylas on his Prow the third appears,Line 255 Who Heav'n interprets, and the wand'ring Stars: From offer'd Entrails Prodigies expounds, And Peals of Thunder, with presaging Sounds. A thousand Spears in warlike Order stand, Sent by the Pisans under his Command.Line 260

Fair Astur follows in the wat'ry Field, Proud of his manag'd Horse, and painted Shield.

Gravisca, noisom from the neighb'ring Fen, And his own Coere sent three hundred Men: With those which Minio's Fields, and Pyrgi gave;Line 265 All bred in Arms, unanimous and brave.

Thou Muse the Name of Cyniras renew, And brave Cupavo follow'd but by few: Whose Helm confess'd the Lineage of the Man, And bore, with Wings display'd, a silver Swan.Line 270 Love was the fault of his fam'd Ancestry, Whose Forms, and Fortunes in his Ensigns fly. For Cycnus lov'd unhappy Phaeton, And sung his Loss in Poplar Groves, alone; Beneath the Sister shades to sooth his Grief;Line 275 Heav'n heard his Song, and hasten'd his Relief: And chang'd to snowy Plumes his hoary Hair, And wing'd his Flight, to chant aloft in Air. His Son Cupavo brush'd the briny Flood; Upon his Stern a brawny Centaur stood,Line 280 Who heav'd a Rock, and threat'ning still to throw, With lifted Hands, alarm'd the Seas below: They seem'd to fear the formidable Sight, And rowl'd their Billows on, to speed his Flight.

Ocnus was next, who led his Native Train,Line 285 Of hardy Warriors, thro' the wat'ry Plain. The Son of Manto, by the Tuscan Stream, From whence the Mantuan Town derives the Name. An ancient City, but of mix'd Descent, Three sev'ral Tribes compose the Government:Line 290 Four Towns are under each; but all obey The Mantuan Laws, and own the Tuscan Sway.

Hate to Mezentius, arm'd five hundred more, Whom Mincius from his Sire Benacus bore; (Mincius with Wreaths of Reeds his forehead cover'd o're.)Line 295

These grave Auletes leads. A hundred sweep, With stretching Oars at once the glassy deep: Him, and his Martial Train, the Triton bears, High on his Poop the Sea-green God appears: Frowning he seems his crooked Shell to sound,Line 300 And at the Blast the Billows dance around. A hairy Man above the Waste he shows, A Porpoise Tail beneath his Belly grows; And ends a Fish: His Breast the Waves divides, And Froth and Foam augment the murm'ring Tides.Line 305

Full thirty Ships transport the chosen Train, For Troy's Relief, and scour the briny Main.

Now was the World sorsaken by the Sun, And Phoebe half her nightly Race had run. The careful Chief, who never clos'd his Eyes,Line 310 Himself the Rudder holds, the Sails supplies. A Choir of Nereids meet him on the Flood, Once his own Gallies, hewn from Ida's Wood: But now as many Nymphs the Sea they sweep, As rode before tall Vessels on the Deep.Line 315 They know him from afar; and, in a Ring, Inclose the Ship that bore the Trojan King. Cymodoce, whose Voice excell'd the rest, Above the Waves advanc'd her snowy Breast, Her right Hand stops the Stern, her left dividesLine 320 The curling Ocean, and corrects the Tides: She spoke for all the Choir; and thus began, With pleasing Words to warn th' unknowing Man. Sleeps our lov'd Lord? O Goddess-born! awake, Spread ev'ry Sail, pursue your wat'ry Track;Line 325 And haste your Course. Your Navy once were we, From Ida's Height descending to the Sea: 'Till Turnus, as at Anchor fix'd we stood, Presum'd to violate our holy Wood. Line 330

Then loos'd from Shore we fled his Fires prophane;Line 330 (Unwillingly we broke our Master's Chain) And since have sought you thro' the Tuscan Main. The mighty Mother chang'd our Forms to these, And gave us Life Immortal in the Seas. But young Ascanius, in his Camp distress'd,Line 335 By your insulting Foes is hardly press'd. Th' Arcadian Horsemen, and Etrurian Hoast Advance in order on the Latian Coast: To cut their way the Daunian Chief designs, Before their Troops can reach the Trojan Lines.Line 340 Thou, when the rosie Morn restores the Light, First arm thy Souldiers for th' ensuing Fight: Thy self the fated Sword of Vulcan wield, And bear aloft th' impenetrable Shield. To Morrow's Sun, unless my Skill be vain,Line 345 Shall see huge heaps of Foes in Battel slain. Parting, she spoke; and with Immortal Force, Push'd on the Vessel in her wat'ry Course: (For well she knew the Way) impell'd behind, The Ship flew forward, and outstrip'd the Wind.Line 350 The rest make up: Unknowing of the cause The Chief admires their Speed, and happy Omens draws.

Then thus he pray'd, and fix'd on Heav'n his Eyes; Hear thou, great Mother of the Deities! With Turrets crown'd, (on Ida's holy Hill,Line 355 Fierce Tygers, rein'd and curb'd, obey thy Will.) Firm thy own Omens, lead us on to fight, And let thy Phrygians conquer in thy right.

He said no more. And now renewing Day Had chas'd the Shadows of the Night away.Line 360 He charg'd the Souldiers with preventing Care, Their Flags to follow, and their Arms prepare; Warn'd of th' ensuing Fight, and bad'em hope the War.

Now, from his lofty Poop, he view'd below His Camp incompass'd, and th' inclosing Foe.Line 365 His blazing Shield imbrac'd, he held on high; The Camp receive the sign, and with loud Shouts reply. Hope arms their Anger: From their Tow'rs they throw Their Darts with double Force, and drive the Foe. Thus, at the signal giv'n, the Cranes ariseLine 370 Before the stormy South, and blacken all the Skies.

King Turnus wonder'd at the Fight renew'd; 'Till, looking back, the Trojan Fleet he view'd: The Seas with swelling Canvass cover'd o're; And the swift Ships descending on the Shore.Line 375 The Latians saw from far, with dazl'd Eyes, The radiant Crest that seem'd in Flames to rise, And dart diffusive Fires around the Field; And the keen glitt'ring of the Golden Shield.

Thus threatning Comets, when by Night they rise,Line 380 Shoot sanguine Streams, and sadden all the Skies: So Sirius, flashing forth sinister Lights, Pale humane kind with Plagues, and with dry Famine frights. Yet Turnus, with undaunted Mind is bent To man the Shores, and hinder their Descent:Line 385 And thus awakes the Courage of his Friends. What you so long have wish'd, kind Fortune sends: In equal Arms to meet th' invading Foe: You find, and find him at Advantage now. Yours is the Day, you need but only dare:Line 390 Your Swords will make you Masters of the War. Your Sires, your Sons, your Houses, and your Lands, And dearest Wifes, are all within your Hands. Be mindful of the Race from whence you came; And emulate in Arms your Fathers Fame.Line 395 Now take the Time, while stagg'ring yet they stand With Feet unfirm; and prepossess the Strand:

Fortune befriends the bold. Nor more he said, But ballanc'd whom to leave, and whom to lead: Then these elects, the Landing to prevent;Line 400 And those he leaves to keep the City pent.

Mean time the Trojan sends his Troops ashore: Some are by Boats expos'd, by Bridges more. With lab'ring Oars they bear along the Strand, Where the Tide languishes, and leap a-land.Line 405 Tarchon observes the Coast with careful Eyes, And where no Foord he finds, no Water fryes, Nor Billows with unequal Murmurs roar; But smoothly slide along, and swell the Shoar; That Course he steer'd, and thus he gave command,Line 410 Here ply your Oars, and at all hazard land: Force on the Vessel that her Keel may wound This hated Soil, and furrow hostile Ground. Let me securely land, I ask no more, Then sink my Ships, or shatter on the Shore.Line 415

This fiery Speech inflames his fearful Friends, They tug at ev'ry Oar; and ev'ry Stretcher bends: They run their Ships aground, the Vessels knock, (Thus forc'd ashore) and tremble with the shock. Tarchon's alone was lost, that stranded stood,Line 420 Stuck on a Bank, and beaten by the Flood. She breaks her Back, the loosen'd Sides give way, And plunge the Tuscan Souldiers in the Sea. Their broken Oars, and floating Planks withstand Their Passage, while they labour to the Land;Line 425 And ebbing Tides bear back upon th' uncertain Sand.

Now Turnus leads his Troops, without delay, Advancing to the Margin of the Sea. The Trumpets sound: Aeneas first assail'd The Clowns new rais'd and raw; and soon prevail'd.Line 430

[illustration]

To y^e Right Hon^ble: S^r: Robert Howard Auditor of his Ma^ties. Exchequer, and one of y^e Lords of his Maj^ties. most Hon^ble: Prioy Councill

AE. 10. l. 450.

Great Theron fell, an Omen of the Fight: Great Theron large of Limbs, of Gyant height. He first in open Field defy'd the Prince, But Armour scal'd with Gold was no Defence Against the fated Sword, which open'd wideLine 435 His plated Shield, and pierc'd his naked side.

Next, Lycas fell; who, not like others born, Was from his wretched Mother rip'd and torn: Sacred, O Phoebus! from his Birth to thee, For his beginning Life from biting Steel was free.Line 440 Not far from him was Gyas laid along, Of monst'rous Bulk; with Cisseus fierce and strong: Vain Bulk and Strength; for when the Chief assail'd, Nor Valour, nor Herculean Arms avail'd; Nor their fam'd Father, wont in War to goLine 445 With great Alcides, while he toil'd below. The noisie Pharos next receiv'd his Death, Aeneas writh'd his Dart, and stopp'd his bawling Breath. Then wretched Cydon had receiv'd his Doom, Who courted Clytius in his beardless Bloom,Line 450 And sought with lust obscene polluted Joys: The Trojan Sword had cur'd his love of Boys, Had not his sev'n bold Brethren stop'd the Course Of the fierce Champion, with united Force. Sev'n Darts were thrown at once, and some reboundLine 455 From his bright Shield, some on his Helmet sound: The rest had reach'd him, but his Mother's Care Prevented those, and turn'd aside in Air.

The Prince then call'd Achates, to supply The Spears, that knew the way to Victory.Line 460 Those fatal Weapons, which inur'd to Blood, In Grecian Bodies under Ilium stood: Not one of those my Hand shall toss in vain Against our Foes, on this contended Plain. Line 465

He said: Then seiz'd a mighty Spear, and threw;Line 465 Which, wing'd with Fate, thro' Maeon's Buckler flew: Pierc'd all the brazen Plates, and reach'd his Heart: He stagger'd with intolerable Smart. Alcanor saw; and reach'd, but reach'd in vain, His helping Hand, his Brother to sustain.Line 470 A second Spear, which kept the former Course, From the same Hand, and sent with equal Force, His right Arm pierc'd, and holding on, bereft His use of both, and pinion'd down his left. Then Numitor, from his dead Brother drewLine 475 Th' ill-omend Spear, and at the Trojan threw: Preventing Fate directs the Lance awry, Which glancing, only mark'd Achates Thigh.

In Pride of Youth the Sabine Clausus came, And from afar, at Driops took his Aim.Line 480 The Spear flew hissing thro' the middle Space, And pierc'd his Throat, directed at his Face: It stop'd at once the Passage of his Wind, And the free Soul to flitting Air resign'd: His Forehead was the first that struck the Ground;Line 485 Life-blood, and Life rush'd mingl'd thro' the Wound. He slew three Brothers of the Borean Race, And three, whom Ismarus, their Native Place, Had sent to War, but all the Sons of Thrace. Halesus next, the bold Aurunci leads;Line 490 The Son of Neptune to his Aid succeeds, Conspicuous on his Horse: On either Hand These fight to keep, and those to win the Land. With mutual Blood th' Ausonian Soil is dy'd, While on its Borders each their Claim decide.Line 495

As wint'ry Winds contending in the Sky, With equal force of Lungs their Titles try.

They rage, they roar; the doubtful rack of Heav'n Stands without Motion, and the Tyde undriv'n: Each bent to conquer, neither side to yield;Line 500 They long suspend the Fortune of the Field. Both Armies thus perform what Courage can: Foot set to Foot, and crowded Man to Man.

But in another part, th' Arcadian Horse, With ill Success ingage the Latin Force.Line 505 For where th' impetuous Torrent rushing down, Huge craggy Stones, and rooted Trees had thrown: They left their Coursers, and unus'd to Fight On Foot, were scatter'd in a shameful flight. Pallas, who with Disdain and Grief, had view'dLine 510 His Foes pursuing, and his Friends pursu'd; Us'd Threatnings mix'd with Pray'rs, his last Ressource; With these to move their Minds, with those to fire their Force. Which way, Companions! Whether wou'd you run? By you your selves, and mighty Battels won;Line 515 By my great Sire, by his establish'd Name, And early promise of my Future Fame; By my Youth emulous of equal Right, To share his Honours, shun ignoble Flight. Trust not your Feet, your Hands must hew your wayLine 520 Thro' yon black Body, and that thick Array: 'Tis thro' that forward Path that we must come: There lies our Way, and that our Passage home. Nor Pow'rs above, nor Destinies below, Oppress our Arms; with equal Strength we go;Line 525 With Mortal Hands to meet a Mortal Foe. See on what Foot we stand: A scanty Shore; The Sea behind, our Enemies before: No Passage left, unless we swim the Main; Or forcing these, the Trojan Trenches gain.Line 530

This said, he strode with eager haste along, And bore amidst the thickest of the Throng. Lagus, the first he met, with Fate to Foe, Had heav'd a Stone of mighty Weight to throw: Stooping, the Spear descended on his Chine,Line 535 Just where the Bone distinguish'd either Loin: It stuck so fast, so deeply bury'd lay, That scarce the Victor forc'd the Steel away.

Hisbon came on, but while he mov'd too slow To wish'd Revenge, the Prince prevents his Blow:Line 540 For warding his at once, at once he press'd; And plung'd the fatal Weapon in his Breast. Then leud Anchemolus he laid in Dust, Who stain'd his Stepdam's Bed with impious Lust. And after him the Daucian Twins were slain,Line 545 Laris and Thimbrus, on the Latian Plain: So wond'rous like in Feature, Shape, and Size, As caus'd an Error in their Parents Eyes. Grateful Mistake! but soon the Sword decides The nice Distinction, and their Fate divides.Line 550 For Thimbrus Head was lop'd: and Laris Hand Dismember'd, sought its Owner on the Strand: The trembling Fingers yet the Fauchion strain, And threaten still th' intended Stroke in vain.

Now, to renew the Charge, th' Arcadians came:Line 555 Sight of such Acts, and sense of honest Shame, And Grief, with Anger mix'd, their Minds inflame. Then, with a casual Blow was Rhaeteus slain, Who chanc'd, as Pallas threw, to cross the Plain: The flying Spear was after Ilus sent,Line 560 But Rhaeteus hapen'd on a Death unmeant: From Teuthras, and from Tyres while he fled, The Lance, athwart his Body, laid him dead:

Rowl'd from his Chariot with a Mortal Wound, And intercepted Fate, he spurn'd the Ground.Line 565

As, when in Summer, welcome Winds arise, The watchful Shepherd to the Forest flies, And fires the midmost Plants; Contagion spreads, And catching Flames infect the neighb'ring Heads; Around the Forest flies the furious Blast,Line 570 And all the leafie Nation sinks at last; And Vulcan rides in Triumph o're the Wast; The Pastor pleas'd with his dire Victory, Beholds the satiate Flames in Sheets ascend the Sky: So Pallas's Troops their scatter'd Strength unite;Line 575 And pouring on their Foes, their Prince delight.

Halesus came, fierce with desire of Blood, (But first collected in his Arms he stood) Advancing then, he ply'd the Spear so well, Ladon, Demodocus, and Pheres fell:Line 580 Around his Head he toss'd his glitt'ring Brand, And from Strimonius hew'd his better Hand, Held up to guard his Throat: Then hurl'd a Stone At Thoas ample Front, and pierc'd the Bone: It struck beneath the space of either Eye,Line 585 And Blood, and mingled Brains, together fly. Deep skill'd in future Fates, Halesus Sire, Did with the Youth to lonely Groves retire: But when the Father's Mortal Race was run, Dire Destiny laid hold upon the Son,Line 590 And haul'd him to the War: to find beneath Th' Evandrian Spear, a memorable Death.

Pallas th' Encounter seeks, but e're he throws, To Tuscan Tyber thus address'd his Vows: O sacred Stream direct my flying Dart;Line 595 And give to pass the proud Halesus Heart:

His Arms and Spoils thy holy Oak shall bear: Pleas'd with the Bribe, the God receiv'd his Pray'r. For while his Shield protects a Friend distress'd, The Dart came driving on, and pierc'd his Breast.Line 600

But Lausus, no small portion of the War, Permits not Panick Fear to reign too far, Caus'd by the Death of so renown'd a Knight; But by his own Example chears the Fight. Fierce Abas first he slew, Abas, the stayLine 605 Of Trojan Hopes, and hind'rance of the Day. The Phrygian Troops escap'd the Greeks in vain, They, and their mix'd Allies, now load the Plain.

To the rude shock of War both Armies came, Their Leaders equal, and their Strength the same.Line 610 The Rear so press'd the Front, they cou'd not wield Their angry Weapons, to dispute the Field. Here Pallas urges on, and Lausus there, Of equal Youth and Beauty both appear, But both by Fate forbid to breath their Native Air.Line 615 Their Congress in the Field great Jove withstands, Both doom'd to fall, but fall by greater Hands.

Mean time Juturna warns the Daunian Chief Of Lausus Danger, urging swift Relief. With his driv'n Chariot he divides the Crowd,Line 620 And making to his Friends, thus calls aloud: Let none presume his needless Aid to join; Retire, and clear the Field, the Fight is mine: To this right Hand is Pallas only due: Oh were his Father here my just Revenge to view!Line 625 From the forbidden Space his Men retir'd; Pallas, their Awe, and his stern Words admir'd: Survey'd him o're and o're with wond'ring sight, Struck with his haughty Meen, and tow'ring Height. Line 630

Then to the King; your empty Vaunts forbear:Line 630 Success I hope, and Fate I cannot fear. Alive or dead, I shall deserve a Name: Jove is impartial, and to both the same. He said, and to the void advanc'd his Pace; Pale Horror sate on each Arcadian Face.Line 635 Then Turnus, from his Chariot leaping light, Address'd himself on Foot to single Fight. And, as a Lyon, when he spies from far A Bull, that seems to meditate the War; Bending his Neck, and spurning back the Sand,Line 640 Runs roaring downward from his hilly Stand: Imagine eager Turnus not more slow, To rush from high on his unequal Foe.

Young Pallas, when he saw the Chief advance Within due distance of his flying Lance;Line 645 Prepares to charge him first: Resolv'd to try If Fortune wou'd his want of Force supply. And thus to Heav'n and Hercules address'd. Alcides, once on Earth Evander's Guest, His Son adjures you by those Holy Rites,Line 650 That hospitable Board, those Genial Nights; Assist my great Attempt to gain this Prize, And let proud Turnus view, with dying Eyes, His ravish'd Spoils. 'Twas heard, the vain Request; Alcides mourn'd: And stifled Sighs within his Breast.Line 655 Then Jove, to sooth his Sorrow, thus began: Short bounds of Life are set to Mortal Man, 'Tis Vertues work alone to stretch the narrow Span. So many Sons of Gods in bloody Fight, Around the Walls of Troy, have lost the Light:Line 660 My own Sarpedon fell beneath his Foe, Nor I, his mighty Sire, cou'd ward the Blow.

Ev'n Turnus shortly shall resign his Breath; And stands already on the Verge of Death. This said, the God permits the fatal Fight,Line 665 But from the Latian Fields averts his sight.

Now with full Force his Spear young Pallas threw; And having thrown, his shining Fauchion drew: The Steel just graz'd along the Shoulder Joint, And mark'd it slightly with the glancing Point.Line 670 Fierce Turnus first to nearer distance drew, And poiz'd his pointed Spear before he threw: Then, as the winged Weapon whiz'd along; See now, said he, whose Arm is better strung. The Spear kept on the fatal Course, unstay'dLine 675 By Plates of Ir'n, which o're the Shield were laid: Thro' folded Brass, and tough Bull-hides it pass'd, His Corslet pierc'd, and reach'd his Heart at last. In vain the Youth tugs at the broken Wood, The Soul comes issuing with the vital Blood:Line 680 He falls; his Arms upon his Body sound; And with his bloody Teeth he bites the Ground.

Turnus bestrode the Corps: Arcadians hear, Said he; my Message to your Master bear: Such as the Sire deserv'd, the Son I send:Line 685 It costs him dear to be the Phrygians Friend. The lifeless Body, tell him, I bestow Unask'd, to please his wand'ring Ghost below. He said, and trampled down with all the Force Of his left Foot, and spurn'd the wretched Corse:Line 690 Then snatch'd the shining Belt, with Gold inlaid; The Belt Eurytion's artful Hands had made: Where fifty fatal Brides, express'd to sight, All, in the compass of one mournful Night, Depriv'd their Bridegrooms of returning Light.Line 695

[illustration]

To S^r: Iohn Leveson Gower of Trentham in, Staffordshire Baronet

AE. 10. l. 690.

In an ill Hour insulting Turnus tore Those Golden Spoils, and in a worse he wore. O Mortals! blind in Fate, who never know To bear high Fortune, or endure the low! The Time shall come, when Turnus, but in vain,Line 700 Shall wish untouch'd the Trophies of the slain: Shall wish the fatal Belt were far away; And curse the dire Remembrance of the Day.

The sad Arcadians from th' unhappy Field, Bear back the breathless Body on a Shield.Line 705 O Grace and Grief of War! at once restor'd With Praises to thy Sire, at once deplor'd. One Day first sent thee to the fighting Field, Beheld whole heaps of Foes in Battel kill'd; One Day beheld thee dead, and born upon thy Shield.Line 710 This dismal News, not from uncertain Fame, But sad Spectators, to the Heroe came: His Friends upon the brink of Ruin stand, Unless reliev'd by his victorious Hand. He whirls his Sword around, without delay,Line 715 And hews through adverse Foes an ample Way; To find fierce Turnus, of his Conquest proud: Evander, Pallas, all that Friendship ow'd To large Deserts, are present to his Eyes; His plighted Hand, and hospitable Ties.Line 720

Four Sons of Sulmo, four whom Ufens bred, He took in fight, and living Victims led, To please the Ghost of Pallas; and expire In Sacrifice, before his Fun'ral Fire. At Magus next he threw: He stoop'd belowLine 725 The flying Spear, and shun'd the promis'd Blow. Then creeping, clasp'd the Hero's Knees, and pray'd▪ By young Iulus, by thy Father's Shade,

O spare my Life, and send me back to see My longing Sire, and tender Progeny.Line 730 A lofty House I have, and Wealth untold, In Silver Ingots, and in Bars of Gold: All these, and Sums besides, which see no Day, The Ransom of this one poor Life shall pay. If I survive, shall Troy the less prevail?Line 735 A single Soul's too light to turn the Scale. He said. The Heroe sternly thus reply'd: Thy Barrs, and Ingots, and the Sums beside, Leave for thy Childrens Lot. Thy Turnus broke All Rules of War, by one relentless StrokeLine 740 When Pallas fell: So deems, nor deems alone, My Father's Shadow, but my living Son. Thus having said, of kind Remorse bereft, He seiz'd his Helm, and drag'd him with his left: Then with his right Hand, while his Neck he wreath'd,Line 745 Up to the hilts his shining Fauchion sheath'd.

Apollo's Priest, Emonides, was near, His holy Fillets on his Front appear; Glitt'ring in Arms he shone amidst the Crowd; Much of his God, more of his Purple proud:Line 750 Him the fierce Trojan follow'd thro' the Field; The holy Coward fell: And forc'd to yield, The Prince stood o're the Priest; and at one Blow, Sent him an Off'ring to the Shades below. His Arms Seresthus on his Shoulders bears,Line 755 Design'd a Trophee to the God of Wars.

Vulcanian Caeculus renews the Fight; And Umbro born upon the Mountains Height: The Champion chears his Troops t' encounter those: And seeks Revenge himself on other Foes.Line 760 At Anxur's Shield he drove, and at the Blow, Both Shield and Arm to Ground together go.

Anxur had boasted much of magick Charms, And thought he wore impenetrable Arms; So made by mutter'd Spells: And from the Spheres,Line 765 Had Life secur'd, in vain, for length of Years. Then Tarquitus the Field in Triumph trod; A Nymph his Mother, and his Sire a God. Exulting in bright Arms he braves the Prince; With his protended Lance He makes defence:Line 770 Bears back his feeble Foe; then pressing on, Arrests his better Hand, and drags him down. Stands o're the prostrate Wretch, and as he lay, Vain Tales inventing, and prepar'd to pray: Mows off his Head, the Trunk a Moment stood,Line 775 Then sunk, and rowl'd along the Sand in Blood.

The vengeful Victor thus upbraids the slain; Lye there, proud Man unpity'd, on the Plain: Lye there, inglorious, and without a Tomb, Far from thy Mother, and thy Native Home:Line 780 Expos'd to salvage Beasts, and Birds of Prey; Or thrown for Food to Monsters of the Sea.

On Lycas and Antaeus next he ran, Two Chiefs of Turnus, and who led his Van. They fled for Fear; with these he chas'd along,Line 785 Camers the yellow Lock'd, and Numa strong, Both great in Arms, and both were fair, and young: Camers, was Son to Volscens lately slain; In Wealth surpassing all the Latian Train, And in Amycla fix'd his silent, easy Reign.Line 790

And as Aegeon, when with Heav'n he strove, Stood opposite in Arms to mighty Jove; Mov'd all his hundred Hands, provok'd the War, Defy'd the forky Lightning from afar: At fifty Mouths his flaming Breath expires,Line 795 And Flash for Flash returns, and Fires for Fires:

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In his right Hand as many Swords he wields, And takes the Thunder on as many Shields: With Strength like his the Trojan Heroe stood, And soon the Fields with falling Corps were strowd,Line 800 When once his Fauchion found the Taste of Blood.

With Fury scarce to be conceiv'd, he flew Against Niphaeus, whom four Coursers drew. They, when they see the fiery Chief advance, And pushing at their Chests his pointed Lance;Line 805 Wheel'd with so swift a Motion, mad with Fear, They threw their Master headlong from the Chair: They stare, they start, nor stop their Course before They bear the bounding Chariot to the Shore.

Now Lucagus, and Liger scour the Plains,Line 810 With two white Steeds, but Liger holds the Reins, And Lucagus the lofty Seat maintains. Bold Brethren both, the former wav'd in Air His flaming Sword; Aeneas couch'd his Spear, Unus'd to Threats, and more unus'd to Fear.Line 815 Then Liger thus. Thy Confidence is vain To scape from hence, as from the Trojan Plain: Nor these the Steeds which Diomede bestrode, Nor this the Chariot where Achilles rode: Nor Venus's Veil is here, nor Neptune's Shield:Line 820 Thy fatal Hour is come; and this the Field. Thus Liger vainly vaunts: The Trojan Peer Return'd his answer with his flying Spear. As Lucagus to lash his Horses bends, Prone to the Wheels, and his left Foot protends:Line 825 Prepar'd for Fight, the fatal Dart arrives, And thro' the borders of his Buckler drives. Pass'd through; and pierc'd his Groin, the deadly Wound, Cast from his Chariot, rowl'd him on the Ground. Line 830

Whom thus the Chief upbraids with scornful spight:Line 830 Blame not the slowness of your Steeds in flight; Vain Shadows did not force their swift Retreat: But you your self forsake your empty Seat. He said, and seiz'd at once the loosen'd Rein, (For Liger lay already on the Plain,Line 835 By the same Shock) then, stretching out his Hands, The Recreant thus his wretched Life demands. Now by thy self, O more than Mortal Man! By her and him from whom thy Breath began, Who form'd thee thus Divine, I beg thee spareLine 840 This forfeit Life, and hear thy Suppliant's Pray'r. Thus much he spoke, and more he wou'd have said, But the stern Heroe turn'd aside his Head, And cut him short. I hear another Man, You talk'd not thus before the Fight began;Line 845 Now take your turn: And, as a Brother shou'd, Attend your Brother to the Stygian Flood: Then thro' his Breast his fatal Sword he sent, And the Soul issu'd at the bloody Vent.

As Storms the Skies, and Torrents tear the Ground,Line 850 Thus rag'd the Prince, and scatter'd Deaths around: At length Ascanius, and the Trojan Train, Broke from the Camp, so long besieg'd in vain. Mean time the King of Gods and Mortal Man, Held Conference with his Queen, and thus began:Line 855 My Sister Goddess, and well pleasing Wife, Still think you Venus's Aid supports the Strife; Sustains her Trojans: Or themselves alone, With inborn Valour force their Fortune on? How fierce in Fight, with Courage undecay'd;Line 860 Judge if such Warriors want immortal Aid. To whom the Goddess, with the charming Eyes, Soft in her Tone submissively replies.

Why, O my loving Lord, whose Frown I fear, And cannot, unconcern'd, your Anger bear;Line 865 Why urge you thus my Grief? When if I still, (As once I was) were Mistress of your Will: From your Almighty Pow'r, your pleasing Wife Might gain the Grace of lengthning Turnus's Life: Securely snatch him from the fatal Fight,Line 870 And give him to his aged Father's sight. Now let him perish, since you hold it good, And glut the Trojans with his pious Blood. Yet from our Lineage he derives his Name, And in the fourth degree, from God Pilumnus came:Line 875 Yet he devoutly pays you Rites Divine, And offers daily Incense at your Shrine.

Then shortly thus the Sov'raign God reply'd; Since in my Pow'r and Goodness you confide; If for a little Space, a lengthen'd Span,Line 880 You beg Reprieve for this expiring Man: I grant you leave to take your Turnus hence, From Instant Fate, and can so far dispense. But if some secret Meaning lies beneath, To save the short-liv'd Youth from destin'd Death:Line 885 Or if a farther Thought you entertain, To change the Fates; you feed your hopes in vain.

To whom the Goddess thus, with weeping Eyes, And what if that Request your Tongue denies, Your Heart shou'd grant; and not a short Reprieve,Line 890 But length of certain Life to Turnus give. Now speedy Death attends the guiltless Youth, If my presaging Soul divines with Truth. Which, O! I wish might err thro' causeless Fears, And you, (for you have Pow'r) prolong his Years.Line 895

Thus having said, involv'd in Clouds, she flies, And drives a Storm before her thro' the Skies.

Swift she descends, alighting on the Plain, Where the fierce Foes a dubious Fight maintain. Of Air condens'd, a Spectre soon she made,Line 900 And what Aeneas was, such seem'd the Shade. Adorn'd with Dardan Arms, the Phantom bore His Head aloft, a Plumy Crest he wore: This Hand appear'd a shining Sword to wield, And that sustain'd an imitated Shield:Line 905 With manly Meen He stalk'd along the Ground; Nor wanted Voice bely'd, nor vaunting Sound. (Thus haunting Ghosts appear to waking Sight, Or dreadful Visions in our Dreams by Night.) The Spectre seems the Daunian Chief to dare,Line 910 And flourishes his empty Sword in Air: At this advancing Turnus hurl'd his Spear; The Phantom wheel'd, and seem'd to fly for Fear. Deluded Turnus thought the Trojan fled, And with vain hopes his haughty Fancy fed.Line 915 Whether, O Coward, (thus he calls aloud, Nor found he spoke to Wind, and chas'd a Cloud;) Why thus forsake your Bride? Receive from me The fated Land you sought so long by Sea. He said, and brandishing at once his Blade,Line 920 With eager Pace pursu'd the flying Shade. By chance a Ship was fasten'd to the Shore, Which from old Clusium King Osinius bore: The Planks were ready laid for safe ascent; For shelter there the trembling Shadow bent:Line 925 And skip'd, and sculk'd, and under Hatches went. Exulting Turnus, with regardless haste, Ascends the Plank, and to the Gally pass'd: Scarce had he reach'd the Prow, Saturnia's Hand The Haulsers cuts, and shoots the Ship from Land.Line 930

With Wind in Poop, the Vessel plows the Sea, And measures back with speed her former Way. Mean time Aeneas seeks his absent Foe, And sends his slaughter'd Troops to Shades below.

The guileful Phantom now forsook the shrowd,Line 935 And flew sublime, and vanish'd in a Cloud. Too late young Turnus the Delusion found, Far on the Sea, still making from the Ground. Then thankless for a Life redeem'd by Shame; With sense of Honour stung, and forfeit Fame:Line 940 Fearful besides of what in Fight had pass'd, His Hands, and hagger'd Eyes to Heav'n he cast. O Jove! he cry'd, for what Offence have I Deserv'd to bear this endless Infamy: Whence am I forc'd, and whether am I born,Line 945 How, and with what Reproach shall I return? Shall ever I behold the Latian Plain, Or see Laurentum's lofty Tow'rs again? What will they say of their deserting Chief? The War was mine, I fly from their Relief:Line 950 I led to Slaughter, and in Slaughter leave; And ev'n from hence their dying Groans receive. Here over-match'd in Fight, in heaps they lye, There scatter'd o're the Fields ignobly fly. Gape wide, O Earth! and draw me down alive,Line 955 Or, oh ye pitying Winds, a Wretch relieve; On Sands or Shelves the splitting Vessel drive: Or set me Shipwrack'd on some desart Shore, Where no Rutulian Eyes may see me more: Unknown to Friends, or Foes, or conscious Fame,Line 960 Lest she should follow, and my flight proclaim.

Thus Turnus rav'd, and various Fates revolv'd, The Choice was doubtful, but the Death resolv'd.

And now the Sword, and now the Sea took place: That to revenge, and this to purge Disgrace.Line 965 Sometimes he thought to swim the stormy Main, By stretch of Arms the distant Shore to gain: Thrice he the Sword assay'd, and thrice the Flood; But Juno mov'd with Pity both withstood: And thrice repress'd his Rage: strong Gales supply'd,Line 970 And push'd the Vessel o're the swelling Tide. At length she lands him on his Native Shores, And to his Father's longing Arms restores.

Mean time, by Jove's Impulse, Mezentius arm'd: Succeeding Turnus; with his ardour warm'dLine 975 His fainting Friends, reproach'd their shameful flight, Repell'd the Victors, and renew'd the Fight. Against their King the Tuscan Troops conspire, Such is their Hate, and such their fierce desire Of wish'd Revenge: On him, and him alone,Line 980 All Hands employ'd, and all their Darts are thrown. He, like a solid Rock by Seas inclos'd, To raging Winds and roaring Waves oppos'd; From his proud Summit looking down, disdains Their empty Menace, and unmov'd remains.Line 985

Beneath his Feet fell haughty Hebrus dead, Then Latagus; and Palmus as he fled: At Latagus a weighty Stone he flung, His Face was flatted, and his Helmet rung. But Palmus from behind receives his Wound,Line 990 Hamstring'd he falls, and grovels on the Ground: His Crest and Armor from his Body torn, Thy Shoulders, Lausus, and thy Head adorn. Evas and Mymas, both of Troy, he slew, Mymas his Birth from fair Theano drew:Line 995 Born on that fatal Night, when, big with Fire, The Queen produc'd young Paris to his Sire.

But Paris in the Phrygian Fields was slain, Unthinking Mymas on the Latian Plain.

And as a salvage Boar on Mountains bred,Line 1000 With forest Mast, and fatning Marshes fed; When once he sees himself in Toils inclos'd, By Huntsmen and their eager Hounds oppos'd: He whets his Tusks, and turns, and dares the War: Th' Invaders dart their Jav'lins from afar;Line 1005 All keep aloof, and safely shout around, But none presumes to give a nearer Wound. He frets and froaths, erects his bristled Hide, And shakes a Grove of Lances from his Side: Not otherwise the Troops, with Hate inspir'd,Line 1010 And just Revenge, against the Tyrant fir'd; Their Darts with Clamour at a distance drive: And only keep the languish'd War alive.

From Coritus came Acron to the Fight, Who left his Spouse betroath'd, and unconsummate Night.Line 1015 Mezentius sees him thro' the Squadrons ride, Proud of the Purple Favours of his Bride. Then, as a hungry Lyon, who beholds A Gamesom Goat, who frisks about the Folds; Or beamy stag that grazes on the Plain:Line 1020 He runs, he roars, he shakes his rising Mane; He grins, and opens wide his greedy Jaws, The Prey lyes panting underneath his Paws: He fills his famish'd Maw, his Mouth runs o're With unchew'd Morsels, while he churns the Gore:Line 1025 So proud Mezentius rushes on his Foes, And first unhappy Acron overthrows: Stretch'd at his length, he spurns the swarthy Ground, The Lance besmear'd with Blood, lies broken in the wound.

Then with Disdain the haughty Victor view'dLine 1030 Orodes flying, nor the Wretch pursu'd:

Nor thought the Dastard's Back deserv'd a Wound, But running gain'd th' Advantage of the Ground. Then turning short, he met him Face to Face, To give his Victory the better grace.Line 1035 Orodes falls, in equal Fight oppress'd: Mezentius fix'd his Foot upon his Breast, And rested Lance: And thus aloud he cries, Lo here the Champion of my Rebels lies. The Fields around with Io Paean ring,Line 1040 And peals of Shouts applaud the conqu'ring King. At this the vanquish'd, with his dying Breath, Thus faintly spoke, and prophesy'd in Death: Nor thou, proud Man, unpunish'd shalt remain; Like Death attends thee on this fatal Plain.Line 1045 Then, sourly smiling, thus the King reply'd, For what belongs to me let Jove provide: But dye thou first, whatever Chance ensue: He said, and from the Wound the Weapon drew: A hov'ring Mist came swimming o're his sight,Line 1050 And seal'd his Eyes in everlasting Night.

By Caedicus, Alcathous was slain, Sacrator laid Hydaspes on the Plain: Orses the strong to greater Strength must yield; He, with Parthenius, were by Rapo kill'd.Line 1055 Then brave Messapus Ericetes slew, Who from Lycaon's Blood his Lineage drew. But from his headstrong Horse his Fate he found, Who threw his Master as he made a bound, The Chief alighting, stuck him to the Ground.Line 1060 Then Clonius hand to hand, on Foot assails, The Trojan sinks, and Neptune's Son prevails.

Agis the Lycian stepping forth with Pride, To single Fight the boldest Foe defy'd. Line 1065

Whom Tuscan Valerus by Force o'recame,Line 1065 And not bely'd his mighty Father's Fame. Salius to Death the great Antronius fent, But the same Fate the Victor underwent: Slain by Nealces Hand, well skill'd to throw The flying Dart, and draw the far-deceiving Bow.Line 1070

Thus equal Deaths are dealt with equal Chance; By turns they quit their Ground, by turns advance: Victors, and vanquish'd, in the various Field, Nor wholly overcome, nor wholly yield. The Gods from Heav'n survey the fatal Strife,Line 1075 And mourn the Miseries of Human Life. Above the rest two Goddesses appear Concern'd for each: Here Venus, Juno there: Amidst the Crowd Infernal Atè shakes Her Scourge aloft, and Crest of hissing Snakes.Line 1080

Once more the proud Mezentius, with Disdain, Brandish'd his Spear, and rush'd into the Plain: Where tow'ring in the midmost Ranks he stood, Like tall Orion stalking o're the Flood: When with his brawny Breast he cuts the Waves,Line 1085 His Shoulders scarce the topmost Billow laves. Or like a Mountain Ash, whose Roots are spread, Deep fix'd in Earth, in Clouds he hides his Head.

The Trojan Prince beheld him from afar, And dauntless undertook the doubtful War.Line 1090 Collected in his Strength, and like a Rock, Poiz'd on his Base, Mezentius stood the Shock. He stood, and measuring first with careful Eyes, The space his Spear cou'd reach, aloud he cries: My strong right Hand, and Sword, assist my Stroke;Line 1095 (Those only Gods Mezentius will invoke) His Armour from the Trojan Pyrate torn, By my triumphant Lausus shall be worn.

[illustration]

To S^r: Charles Orby Baronet of Burton Pednarden in y^e County of Lincolne

AE. 10. l. 1125.

He said, and with his utmost force he threw The massy Spear, which, hissing as it flew,Line 1100 Reach'd the Coelestial Shield that stop'd the course; But glancing thence, the yet unbroken Force Took a new bent obliquely, and betwixt The Side and Bowels fam'd Anthores fix'd. Anthores had from Argos travell'd far,Line 1105 Alcides Friend, and Brother of the War: 'Till tir'd with Toils, fair Italy he chose, And in Evander's Palace sought Repose: Now falling by another's Wound, his Eyes He casts to Heav'n, on Argos thinks, and dyes.Line 1110

The pious Trojan then his Jav'lin sent, The Shield gave way: Thro' treble Plates it went Of solid Brass, of Linnen trebly rowl'd, And three Bull-hides which round the Buckler rowl'd. All these it pass'd, resistless in the Course,Line 1115 Transpierc'd his Thigh, and spent its dying Force. The gaping Wound gush'd out a Crimson Flood; The Trojan, glad with sight of hostile Blood, His Fauchion drew, to closer Fight address'd, And with new Force his fainting Foe oppress'd.Line 1120

His Father's Peril Lausus view'd with Grief, He sigh'd, he wept, he ran to his Relief. And here, Heroick Youth, 'tis here I must To thy immortal Memory be just; And sing an Act so noble and so new,Line 1125 Posterity will scarce believe 'tis true. Pain'd with his Wound, and useless for the Fight, The Father sought to save himself by Flight: Incumber'd, slow he drag'd the Spear along, Which pierc'd his thigh, and in his Buckler hung.Line 1130 The pious Youth, resolv'd on Death, below The lifted Sword, springs forth to face the Foe; Protects his Parent, and prevents the Blow.

Shouts of Applause ran ringing thro' the Field, To see the Son the vanquish'd Father shield:Line 1135 All fir'd with gen'rous Indignation strive; And with a storm of Darts, to distance drive The Trojan Chief; who held at Bay from far, On his Vulcanian Orb sustain'd the War.

As when thick Hail comes ratling in the Wind,Line 1140 The Plowman, Passenger, and lab'ring Hind, For shelter to the neighb'ring Covert fly; Or hous'd, or safe in hollow Caverns lye: But that o'reblown, when Heav'n above 'em smiles, Return to Travel, and renew their Toils:Line 1145 Aeneas thus o'rewhelm'd on ev'ry side, The storm of Darts, undaunted, did abide; And thus to Lausus loud with friendly threat'ning cry'd. Why wilt thou rush to certain Death, and Rage In rash Attempts, beyond thy tender Age:Line 1150 Betray'd by pious Love? Nor thus forborn The Youth desists, but with insulting Scorn Provokes the ling'ring Prince: Whose Patience tyr'd, Gave Place, and all his Breast with Fury fir'd. For now the Fates prepar'd their cruel Sheers;Line 1155 And lifted high the flaming Sword appears: Which full descending, with a frightful sway, Thro Shield and Corslet forc'd th'impetuous Way, And bury'd deep in his fair Bosom lay. The purple Streams thro' the thin Armour strove,Line 1160 And drench'd th' imbroider'd Coat his Mother wove: And Life at length forsook his heaving Heart, Loath from so sweet a Mansion to depart.

But when, with Blood, and Paleness all o'respread, The pious Prince beheld young Lausus dead;Line 1165 He griev'd, he wept, the sight an Image brought Of his own filial Love; a sadly pleasing Thought.

Then stretch'd his Hand to hold him up, and said, Poor hapless Youth! what Praises can be paid To Love so great, to such transcendent StoreLine 1170 Of early Worth, and sure Presage of more? Accept what e're Aeneas can afford, Untouch'd thy Arms, untaken be thy Sword: And all that pleas'd thee living still remain Inviolate, and sacred to the slain.Line 1175 Thy Body on thy Parents I bestow, To rest thy Soul, at least if Shadows know, Or have a sense of human Things below. There to thy fellow Ghosts with Glory tell, 'Twas by the great Aeneas hand I fell.Line 1180 With this his distant Friends he beckons near, Provokes their Duty, and prevents their Fear: Himself assists to lift him from the Ground, With clotted Locks, and Blood that well'd from out the Wound.

Mean time his Father, now no Father, stood,Line 1185 And wash'd his Wounds by Tyber's yellow Flood: Oppress'd with Anguish, panting, and o'respent, His fainting Limbs against an Oak he leant. A Bough his Brazen Helmet did sustain, His heavier Arms lay scatter'd on the Plain.Line 1190 A chosen Train of Youth around him stand, His drooping Head was rested on his hand: His grisly Beard his pensive Bosom sought, And all on Lausus ran his restless thought. Careful, concern'd his Danger to prevent,Line 1195 He much enquir'd, and many a Message sent To warn him from the Field: Alas! in vain, Behold his mournful Followers bear him slain: O're his broad Shield still gush'd the yawning Wound, And drew a bloody Trail along the Ground.Line 1200

Far off he heard their Cries, far off divin'd The dire Event, with a foreboding Mind. With Dust he sprinkled first his hoary Head, Then both his lifted hands to Heav'n he spread; Last, the dear Corps embracing, thus he said.Line 1205 What Joys, alas! cou'd this frail Being give, That I have been so covetous to live? To see my Son, and such a Son, resign His Life a Ransom for preserving mine? And am I then preserv'd, and art thou lost?Line 1210 How much too dear has that Redemption cost! 'Tis now my bitter Banishment I feel; This is a Wound too deep for time to heal. My Guilt thy growing Virtues did defame; My Blackness blotted thy unblemish'd Name.Line 1215 Chas'd from a Throne, abandon'd, and exil'd For foul Misdeeds, were Punishments too mild: I ow'd my People these, and from their hate, With less Resentment cou'd have born my Fate. And yet I live, and yet sustain the sightLine 1220 Of hated Men, and of more hated Light: But will not long. With that he rais'd from Ground His fainting Limbs, that stagger'd with his Wound. Yet with a Mind resolv'd, and unappal'd With Pains or Perils, for his Courser call'd:Line 1225 Well mouth'd, well manag'd, whom himself did dress, With daily Care, and mounted with Success; His Aid in Arms, his Ornament in Peace.

Soothing his Courage with a gentle Stroke, The Steed seem'd sensible, while thus he spoke.Line 1230 O Rhaebus we have liv'd too long for me, (If Life and long were Terms that cou'd agree) This Day thou either shalt bring back the Head, And bloody Trophees of the Trojan dead: Line 1235

This Day thou either shalt revenge my WoeLine 1235 For murther'd Lausus, on his cruel Foe; Or if inexorable Fate deny Our Conquest, with thy conquer'd Master dye: For after such a Lord, I rest secure, Thou wilt no foreign Reins, or Trojan Load endure.Line 1240 He said: And straight th' officious Courser kneels To take his wonted Weight. His Hands he fills With pointed Jav'lins: On his Head he lac'd His glitt'ring Helm, which terribly was grac'd With waving Horse-hair, nodding from afar;Line 1245 Then spurr'd his thund'ring Steed amidst the War. Love, Anguish, Wrath, and Grief, to Madness wrought, Despair, and secret Shame, and conscious thought Of inborn Worth, his lab'ring Soul oppress'd, Rowl'd in his Eyes, and rag'd within his Breast.Line 1250 Then loud he call'd Aeneas thrice by Name, The loud repeated Voice to glad Aeneas came. Great Jove, he said, and the far-shooting God, Inspire thy Mind to make thy Challenge good. He spoke no more, but hasten'd, void of Fear,Line 1255 And threaten'd with his long protended Spear.

To whom Mezentius thus. Thy Vaunts are vain, My Lausus lies extended on the Plain: He's lost! thy Conquest is already won, The wretched Sire is murther'd in the Son.Line 1260 Nor Fate I fear, but all the Gods defy, Forbear thy Threats, my Bus'ness is to dye; But first receive this parting Legacy. He said: And straight a whirling Dart he sent: Another after, and another went.Line 1265 Round in a spacious Ring he rides the Field, And vainly plies th' impenetrable Shield: Thrice rode he round, and thrice Aeneas wheel'd.

Turn'd as he turn'd; the Golden Orb withstood The Strokes, and bore about an Iron Wood.Line 1270 Impatient of Delay, and weary grown, Still to defend, and to defend alone: To wrench the Darts which in his Buckler light, Urg'd, and o're-labour'd in unequal Fight: At length resolv'd, he throws with all his Force,Line 1275 Full at the Temples of the Warrior Horse. Just where the Stroke was aim'd, th' unerring Spear Made way, and stood transfix'd thro' either Ear. Seiz'd with unwonted Pain, surpriz'd with Fright, The wounded Steed curvets; and, rais'd upright,Line 1280 Lights on his Feet before: His Hoofs behind Spring up in Air aloft, and lash the Wind. Down comes the Rider headlong from his height, His Horse came after with unweildy weight: And flound'ring forward, pitching on his Head,Line 1285 His Lord's incumber'd Sholuder overlaid.

From either Hoast the mingl'd Shouts, and Cries, Of Trojans and Rutulians rend the Skies. Aeneas hast'ning, wav'd his fatal Sword High o're his head, with this reproachful Word.Line 1290 Now, where are now thy Vaunts, the fierce Disdain Of proud Mezentius, and the lofty Strain?

Strugling, and wildly staring on the Skies, With scarce recover'd Sight, he thus replies. Why these insulting Words, this waste of Breath,Line 1295 To Souls undaunted, and secure of Death? 'Tis no Dishonour for the Brave to dye, Nor came I here with hope of Victory: Nor ask I Life, nor fought with that design, As I had us'd my Fortune, use thou thine.Line 1300 My dying Son contracted no such Band; The Gift is hateful from his Murd'rer's hand.

[illustration]

To Tho: Hopkins of y^e Middle Temple Esq.

For this, this only Favour let me sue, (If Pity can to conquer'd Foes be due) Refuse it not: But let my Body have,Line 1305 The last Retreat of Human Kind, a Grave. Too well I know th' insulting People's Hate; Protect me from their Vengeance after Fate: This Refuge for my poor Remains provide, And lay my much lov'd Lausus by my side:Line 1310 He said, and to his Throat the Sword apply'd. The Crimson Stream distain'd his Arms around, And the disdainful Soul came rushing thro' the Wound.

The Eleventh Book of the Aeneis.

The Argument.

Aeneas erects a Trophy of the Spoils of Mezentius; grants a Truce for burying the dead; and sends home the Body of Pallas with great Solemnity. Latinus calls a Council to propose offers of Peace to Aeneas, which occasions great Animosity betwixt Tur∣nus and Drances: In the mean time there is a sharp Engage∣ment of the Horse; wherein Camilla signalizes her self; is kill'd: And the Latine Troops are entirely defeated.

SCarce had the rosie Morning rais'd her Head Above the Waves, and left her wat'ry Bed; The Pious Chief, whom double Cares attend For his unbury'd Souldiers, and his Friend: Yet first to Heav'n perform'd a Victor's Vows;Line 5 He bar'd an ancient Oak of all her Boughs: Then on a rising Ground the Trunk he plac'd; Which with the Spoils of his dead Foe he grac'd. The Coat of Arms by proud Mezentius worn, Now on a naked Snag in Triumph born,Line 10 Was hung on high; and glitter'd from afar: A Trophy sacred to the God of War. Above his Arms, fix'd on the leafless Wood, Appear'd his Plumy Crest, distilling Blood; His brazen Buckler on the left was seen;Line 15 Trunchions of shiver'd Lances hung between: And on the right was plac'd his Corslet, bor'd; And to the Neck was ty'd his unavailing Sword. A Crowd of Chiefs inclose the Godlike Man: Who thus, conspicuous in the midst, began.Line 20

Our Toils, my Friends, are crown'd with sure Success: The greater Part perform'd, atchieve the less.

[illustration]

To y^e Right Noble Charles Duke of Shrensbury Marquis of Alton Earle of Shrensbury Wexford & Water-ford, Baron Talbot Strange of Blackmere Gifford of Brimsfield &^ct One of the Lords of his Ma.^ties most Hon.^ble Privy Councill Principall Secretary of State, and Knight of y^e most Noble Order of the Garter.

AE. 11. l. 1.

Now follow chearful to the trembling Town; Press but an Entrance, and presume it won. Fear is no more: For fierce Mezentius lies,Line 25 As the first Fruits of War, a Sacrifice. Turnus shall fall extended on the Plain; And in this Omen is already slain. Prepar'd in Arms pursue your happy Chance; That none unwarn'd may plead his Ignorance:Line 30 And I, at Heav'n's appointed Hour, may find Your warlike Ensigns waving in the Wind. Mean time the Rites and Fun'ral Pomps prepare, Due to your dead Companions of the War: The last Respect the living can bestow,Line 35 To shield their Shadows from Contempt below. That conquer'd Earth be theirs for which they fought; And which for us with their own blood they bought. But first the Corps of our unhappy Friend, To the sad City of Evander send:Line 40 Who not inglorious in his Ages bloom Was hurry'd hence by too severe a Doom.

Thus, weeping while he spoke, he took his Way, Where, new in Death, lamented Pallas lay: Acaetes watch'd the Corps; whose Youth deserv'dLine 45 The Father's Trust, and now the Son he serv'd With equal Faith, but less auspicious Care: Th' Attendants of the slain, his Sorrow share. A Troop of Trojans mix'd with these appear, And mourning Matrons with dishevell'd Hair.Line 50 Soon as the Prince appears, they raise a Cry; All beat their Breasts, and Echoes rend the Sky. They rear his drooping Forehead from the Ground; But when Aeneas view'd the grisly Wound Which Pallas in his Manly Bosom bore,Line 55 And the fair Flesh distain'd with Purple Gore:

First, melting into Tears, the pious Man Deplor'd so sad a sight, then thus began.

Unhappy Youth! When Fortune gave the rest Of my full Wishes, she refus'd the best!Line 60 She came; but brought not thee along; to bless My longing Eyes, and share in my Success: She grudg'd thy safe Return the Triumphs due To prosp'rous Valour, in the publick View. Not thus I promis'd, when thy Father lentLine 65 Thy needful Succour with a sad Consent; Embrac'd me parting for th' Etrurian Land, And sent me to possess a large Command. He warn'd, and from his own Experience told, Our Foes were warlike, disciplin'd, and bold:Line 70 And now perhaps, in hopes of thy return, Rich Odours on his loaded Altars burn; While we, with vain officious Pomp, prepare To send him back his Portion of the War; A bloody breathless Body: which can oweLine 75 No farther Debt, but to the Pow'rs below. The wretched Father, e're his Race is run, Shall view the Fun'ral Honours of his Son. These are my Triumphs of the Latian War; Fruits of my plighted Faith, and boasted Care.Line 80 And yet, unhappy Sire, thou shalt not see A Son, whose Death disgrac'd his Ancestry: Thou shalt not blush, old Man, however griev'd: Thy Pallas no dishonest Wound receiv'd. He dy'd no Death to make thee wish, too late,Line 85 Thou hadst not liv'd to see his shameful Fate: But what a Champion has th' Ausonian Coast, And what a Friend hast thou, Ascanius, lost!

Thus having mourn'd, he gave the Word around, To raise the lifeless Body from the Ground;Line 90

And chose a thousand Horse, the flow'r of all His warlike Troops, to wait the Funeral: To bear him back, and share Evander's Grief; (A well becoming, but a weak Relief.) Of Oaken Twigs they twist an easie Bier;Line 95 Then on their Shoulders the sad Burden rear. The Body on this Rural Herse is born, Strewd Leaves and Funeral Greens the Bier adorn. All pale he lies, and looks a lovely Flow'r, New cropt by Virgin Hands, to dress the Bow'r;Line 100 Unfaded yet, but yet unfed below, No more to Mother Earth or the green Stem shall owe. Then two fair Vests, of wond'rous Work and Cost, Of Purple woven, and with Gold emboss'd, For Ornament the Trojan Heroe brought,Line 105 Which with her Hands Sidonian Dido wrought. One Vest array'd the Corps, and one they spread O're his clos'd Eyes, and wrap'd around his Head: That when the yellow Hair in Flame shou'd fall, The catching Fire might burn the Golden Caul.Line 110 Besides, the Spoils of Foes in Battel slain, When he descended on the Latian Plain: Arms, Trappings, Horses, by the Herse are led In long Array, (th' Atchievments of the Dead.) Then, pinion'd with their hands behind, appearLine 115 Th' unhappy Captives, marching in the Rear: Appointed Off'rings in the Victor's Name, To sprinkle with their Blood, the Fun'ral Flame. Inferior Trophees by the Chiefs are born; Gantlets and Helms, their heads and hands adorn:Line 120 And fair Inscriptions fix'd, and Titles read, Of Latian Leaders conquer'd by the Dead.

Acaetes on his Pupil's Corps attends, With feeble Steps; supported by his Friends: Line 125

Pausing at ev'ry Pace; in Sorrow drown'd,Line 125 Betwixt their Arms he sinks upon the Ground. Where grov'ling, while he lies in deep Despair, He beats his Breast, and rends his hoary Hair. The Champion's Chariot next is seen to rowl, Besmear'd with hostile blood, and honourably foul.Line 130 To close the Pomp, Aethon, the Steed of State, Is led, the Fun'rals of his Lord to wait. Stripp'd of his Trappings, with a sullen Pace He walks, and the big Tears run rolling down his Face. The Lance of Pallas, and the Crimson Crest,Line 135 Are born behind; the Victor seiz'd the rest. The March begins: The Trumpets hoarsly sound, The Pikes and Lances trail along the Ground. Thus while the Trojan and Arcadian Horse, To Pallantean Tow'rs direct their Course,Line 140 In long Procession rank'd; the pious Chief Stop'd in the Rear, and gave a vent to Grief. The publick Care, he said, which War attends Diverts our present Woes, at least suspends: Peace with the Manes of great Pallas dwell;Line 145 Hail holy Relicks, and a last farewel! He said no more, but inly though he mourn'd, Restrain'd his Tears, and to the Camp return'd.

Now Suppliants, from Laurentum sent, demand A Truce, with Olive Branches in their hand.Line 150 Obtest his Clemency, and from the Plain Beg leave to draw the Bodies of their slain. They plead, that none those common Rites deny To conquer'd Foes, that in fair Battel dye. All cause of Hate was ended in their Death;Line 155 Nor cou'd he War with Bodies void of Breath. A King, they hop'd, wou'd hear a King's Request: Whose Son he once was call'd, and once his Guest.

Their Suit, which was too just to be deny'd, The Heroe grants, and farther thus reply'd:Line 160 O Latian Princes, how severe a Fate In causeless Quarrels has involv'd your State! And arm'd against an unoffending Man, Who sought your Friendship e're the War began! You beg a Truce, which I wou'd gladly give,Line 165 Not only for the slain, but those who live. I came not hether but by Heav'n's Command, And sent by Fate to share the Latian Land. Nor wage I Wars unjust; your King deny'd My proffer'd Friendship, and my promis'd Bride.Line 170 Left me for Turnus; Turnus then should try His Cause in Arms, to Conquer or to dye. My Right and his are in dispute: The slain Fell without fault, our Quarrel to maintain. In equal Arms let us alone contend;Line 175 And let him vanquish, whom his Fates befriend. This is the way, so tell him, to possess The Royal Virgin, and restore the Peace. Bear this my Message back; with ample leave That your slain Friends may Fun'ral Rites receive.Line 180

Thus having said, th' Embassadors amaz'd, Stood mute a while, and on each other gaz'd: Drances, their Chief, who harbour'd in his Breast Long hate to Turnus, as his Foe profess'd, Broke silence first, and to the Godlike Man,Line 185 With graceful action bowing, thus began.

Auspicious Prince, in Arms a mighty Name, But yet whose Actions far transcend your Fame; Wou'd I your Justice or your Force express, Thought can but equal; and all Words are less:Line 190 Your Answer we shall thankfully relate, And Favours granted to the Latian State:

If wish'd Success our Labour shall attend, Think Peace concluded, and the King your Friend: Let Turnus leave the Realm to your Command;Line 195 And seek Alliance in some other Land: Build you the City which your Fates assign; We shall be proud in the great Work to join.

Thus Drances; and his Words so well perswade The rest impower'd, that soon a Truce is made.Line 200 Twelve days the term allow'd: And during those, Latians and Trojans, now no longer Foes, Mix'd in the Woods, for Fun'ral Piles prepare, To fell the Timber, and forget the War. Loud Axes thro' the groaning Groves resound:Line 205 Oak, Mountain Ash, and Poplar, spread the Ground: Firrs fall from high: And some the Trunks receive, In Loaden Wains, with Wedges some they cleave. And now the Fatal News, by Fame is blown Thro' the short Circuit of th' Arcadian Town,Line 210 Of Pallas slain: By Fame, which just before His Triumphs on distended Pinions bore. Rushing from out the Gate, the People stand, Each with a Fun'ral Flambeau in his hand: Wildly they stare, distracted with amaze:Line 215 The Fields are lighten'd with a fiery blaze, That cast a sullen Splendor on their Friends, (The marching Troop which their dead Prince attends.) Both Parties meet: They raise a doleful Cry: The Matrons from the Walls with shrieks reply;Line 220 And their mix'd mourning rends the vaulted Sky. The Town is fill'd with Tumult and with Tears; Till the loud Clamours reach Evander's Ears: Forgetful of his State, he runs along, With a disorder'd pace, and cleaves the Throng:Line 225

[illustration]

To S^r. Walter Kirkham Blount of Sodington in the County of Worcester Bar^t.

AE 11. l. 215

Falls on the Corps, and groaning there he lies, With silent Grief that speaks but at his Eyes: Short Sighs and Sobs succeed; 'till Sorrow breaks A Passage, and at once he weeps and speaks.

O Pallas! thou hast fail'd thy plighted Word!Line 230 To fight with Caution, not to tempt the Sword: I warn'd thee, but in vain; for well I knew What Perils youthful Ardour wou'd pursue: That boiling Blood wou'd carry thee too far; Young as thou wert in Dangers, raw to War!Line 235 O curst Essay of Arms, disast'rous Doom, Prelude of bloody Fields, and Fights to come! Hard Elements of unauspicious War, Vain Vows to Heav'n, and unavailing Care! Thrice happy thou, dear Partner of my Bed,Line 240 Whose holy Soul the Stroke of Fortune fled: Praescious of Ills, and leaving me behind, To drink the Dregs of Life by Fate assign'd. Beyond the Goal of Nature I have gon; My Pallas late set out, but reach'd too soon.Line 245 If, for my League against th' Ausonian State, Amidst their Weapons I had found my Fate, (Deserv'd from them,) then I had been return'd A breathless Victor, and my Son had mourn'd. Yet will I not my Trojan Friend upbraid,Line 250 Nor grudge th' Alliance I so gladly made. 'Twas not his Fault my Pallas fell so young, But my own Crime for having liv'd too long. Yet, since the Gods had destin'd him to dye, At least he led the way to Victory:Line 255 First for his Friends he won the fatal Shore, And sent whole Herds of slaughter'd Foes before: A Death too great, too glorious to deplore.

Nor will I add new Honours to thy Grave; Content with those the Trojan Heroe gave.Line 260 That Funeral Pomp thy Phrygian Friends design'd; In which the Tuscan Chiefs, and Army join'd: Great Spoils, and Trophees gain'd by thee, they bear: Then let thy own Atchievments be thy share. Even thou, O Turnus, hadst a Trophy stood,Line 265 Whose mighty Trunk had better grac'd the Wood, If Pallas had arriv'd, with equal length Of Years, to match thy Bulk with equal Strength. But why, unhappy Man, dost thou detain These Troops, to view the Tears thou shedst in vain!Line 270 Go, Friends, this Message to your Lord relate; Tell him, that if I bear my bitter Fate, And after Pallas Death, live ling'ring on, 'Tis to behold his Vengeance for my Son. I stay for Turnus; whose devoted HeadLine 275 Is owing to the living and the dead: My Son and I expect it from his Hand; 'Tis all that he can give, or we demand. Joy is no more: But I would gladly go, To greet my Pallas with such News below.Line 280

The Morn had now dispell'd the Shades of Night; Restoring Toils, when she restor'd the Light: The Trojan King, and Tuscan Chief, command To raise the Piles, along the winding Strand: Their Friends convey the dead to Fun'ral Fires;Line 285 Black smould'ring Smoke from the green Wood expires; The Light of Heav'n is choak'd, and the new Day retires. Then thrice around the kindled Piles they go: (For ancient Custom had ordain'd it so) Thrice Horse and Foot about the Fires are led,Line 290 And thrice with loud Laments they hail the dead.

[illustration]

To y^e Hon^ble John Noel Esq 2^d Son to y^e R^t Hon^ble: Baptist late L^d Viscount Campden Baron of Ridlington & Ilmington

AE. 11. l. 290.

Tears trickling down their Breasts bedew the Ground; And Drums and Trumpets mix their mournful Sound. Amid the Blaze, their pious Brethren throw The Spoils, in Battel taken from the Foe:Line 295 Helms, Bitts emboss'd, and Swords of shining Steel; One casts a Target, one a Chariot Wheel: Some to their Fellows their own Arms restore; The Fauchions which in luckless Fight they bore: Their Bucklers pierc'd, their Darts bestow'd in vain,Line 300 And shiver'd Lances gather'd from the Plain. Whole Herds of offer'd Bulls about the Fire, And bristled Boars, and wooly Sheep expire. Around the Piles a careful Troop attends, To watch the wasting Flames, and weep their burning Friends.Line 305 Ling'ring along the Shore, 'till dewy Night, New decks the Face of Heav'n with starry Light.

The conquer'd Latians, with like Pious Care, Piles without number for their Dead prepare; Part, in the Places where they fell, are laid;Line 310 And part are to the neighb'ring Fields convey'd. The Corps of Kings, and Captains of Renown, Born off in State, are bury'd in the Town: The rest, unhonour'd, and without a Name, Are cast a common heap to feed the Flame.Line 315 Trojans and Latians vie with like desires: To make the Field of Battel shine with Fires: And the promiscuous Blaze to Heav'n aspires.

Now had the Morning thrice renew'd the Light, And thrice dispell'd the Shadows of the Night;Line 320 When those who round the wasted Fires remain, Perform the last sad Office to the slain: They rake the yet warm Ashes, from below; These, and the Bones unburn'd, in Earth bestow: Line 325

These Relicks with their Country Rites they grace;Line 325 And raise a mount of Turf to mark the place.

But in the Palace of the King, appears A Scene more solemn, and a Pomp of Tears. Maids, Matrons, Widows, mix their common Moans: Orphans their Sires, and Sires lament their Sons.Line 330 All in that universal Sorrow share, And curse the Cause of this unhappy War. A broken League, a Bride unjustly sought, A Crown usurp'd, which with their Blood is bought! These are the Crimes, with which they load the NameLine 335 Of Turnus, and on him alone exclaim. Let him, who lords it o're th' Ausonian Land, Engage the Trojan Heroe hand to hand: His is the Gain, our Lot is but to serve: 'Tis just, the sway he seeks, he shoud deserve.Line 340 This Drances aggravates; and adds, with spight, His Foe expects, and dares him to the Fight. Nor Turnus wants a Party to support His Cause and Credit, in the Latian Court. His former Acts secure his present Fame;Line 345 And the Queen shades him with her mighty Name.

While thus their factious Minds with Fury burn; The Legats from th' Aetolian Prince return: Sad News they bring, that after all the Cost, And Care employ'd, their Embassy is lost:Line 350 That Diomede refus'd his Aid in War; Unmov'd with Presents, and as deaf to Pray'r. Some new Alliance must elswhere be sought; Or Peace with Troy on hard Conditions bought.

Latinus, sunk in Sorrow, finds too late,Line 355 A Foreign Son is pointed out by Fate: And till Aeneas shall Lavinia wed, The wrath of Heav'n is hov'ring o're his Head.

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[illustration]

Rem nulli obscuram nostrae nec vocis egentem Consulis Ô bone Rex Cuncti se scire fatentur Quid fortuna ferat populi sed dicere mussant Det libertatem fande flatusque remittat Cujus ob auspicum infaustum moresque sinistros Dicam equidem licet arma mihi mortemque minetur Lumina tot cecidisse ducum totamque videmus Consedisse urbem luctu

To y^e most Hon^ble. Johns Marquiss of Normanby Earle of Mulgrave & K^t. of y^e most noble Order of y^e Garter

AE. 11. l. 365

The Gods, he saw, espous'd the juster side, When late their Titles in the Field were try'd:Line 360 Witness the fresh Laments, and Fun'ral Tears undry'd.

Thus, full of anxious Thought, he summons all The Latian Senate to the Council Hall: The Princes come, commanded by their Head, And crowd the Paths that to the Palace lead.Line 365 Supream in Pow'r, and reverenc'd for his Years, He takes the Throne, and in the midst appears: Majestically sad, he sits in State, And bids his Envoys their Success relate.

When Venulus began, the murmuring SoundLine 370 Was hush'd, and sacred Silence reign'd around. We have, said he, perform'd your high Command; And pass'd with Peril a long Tract of Land: We reach'd the Place desir'd, with Wonder fill'd, The Grecian Tents, and rising Tow'rs beheld.Line 375 Great Diomede has compass'd round with Walls The City, which Argyripa he calls; From his own Argos nam'd: We touch'd, with Joy, The Royal Hand that raz'd unhappy Troy. When introduc'd, our Presents first we bring,Line 380 Then crave an instant Audience from the King: His Leave obtain'd, our Native Soil we name; And tell th' important Cause for which we came. Attentively he heard us, while we spoke; Then, with soft Accents, and a pleasing Look,Line 385 Made this return. Ausonian Race, of old Renown'd for Peace, and for an Age of Gold, What Madness has your alter'd Minds possess'd, To change for War hereditary Rest? Sollicite Arms unknown, and tempt the Sword,Line 390 (A needless Ill your Ancestors abhorr'd?)

We; (for my self I speak, and all the Name Of Grecians, who to Troy's Destruction came;) Omitting those who were in Battel slain, Or born by rowling Simois to the Main:Line 395 Not one but suffer'd, and too dearly bought The Prize of Honour which in Arms he sought. Some doom'd to Death, and some in Exile driv'n, Out-casts, abandon'd by the Care of Heav'n: So worn, so wretched, so despis'd a Crew,Line 400 As ev'n old Priam might with Pity view. Witness the Vessels by Minerva toss'd In Storms, the vengeful Capharaean Coast; Th' Eubaean Rocks! The Prince, whose Brother led Our Armies to revenge his injur'd Bed,Line 405 In Egypt lost; Ulysses, with his Men, Have seen Charybdis, and the Cyclops Den: Why shou'd I name Idomeneus, in vain Restor'd to Scepters, and expell'd again? Or young Achilles by his Rival slain?Line 410 Ev'n he, the King of Men, the foremost Name Of all the Greeks, and most renown'd by Fame, The proud Revenger of another's Wife, Yet by his own Adult'ress lost his Life: Fell at his Threshold, and the Spoils of Troy,Line 415 The foul Polluters of his Bed enjoy. The Gods have envy'd me the sweets of Life, My much lov'd Country, and my more lov'd Wife: Banish'd from both, I mourn; while in the Sky Transform'd to Birds, my lost Companions fly:Line 420 Hov'ring about the Coasts they make their Moan; And cuff the Cliffs with Pinions not their own. What squalid Spectres, in the dead of Night, Break my short Sleep, and skim before my sight! Line 425

I might have promis'd to my self those Harms,Line 425 Mad as I was, when I with Mortal Arms Presum'd against Immortal Pow'rs to move; And violate with Wounds the Queen of Love. Such Arms, this Hand shall never more employ; No Hate remains with me to ruin'd Troy.Line 430 I war not with its Dust; nor am I glad To think of past Events, or good or bad. Your Presents I return: What e're you bring To buy my Friendship, send the Trojan King. We met in fight, I know him to my Cost;Line 435 With what a whirling force his Lance he toss'd: Heav'ns what a spring was in his Arm, to throw: How high he held his Shield, and rose at ev'ry blow! Had Troy produc'd two more, his Match in Might, They would have chang'd the Fortune of the Fight:Line 440 Th' Invasion of the Greeks had been return'd: Our Empire wasted, and our Cities burn'd. The long Defence the Trojan People made, The War protracted, and the Siege delay'd, Were due to Hector's and this Heroe's hand:Line 445 Both brave alike, and equal in Command; Aeneas, not inferior in the Field, In pious reverence to the Gods, excell'd. Make peace, ye Latians, and avoid with Care Th' impending Dangers of a fatal War.Line 450 He said no more; but with this cold Excuse, Refus'd th' Alliance, and advis'd a Truce.

Thus Venulus concluded his Report. A Jarring Murmur fill'd the factious Court: As when a Torrent rowls with rapid force,Line 455 And dashes o're the Stones that stop the Course; The Flood, constrain'd within a scanty space, Roars horrible along th' uneasie race:

White foam in gath'ring Eddies floats around: The rocky Shores rebellow to the sound.Line 460 The Murmur ceas'd: Then from his lofty Throne The King invok'd the Gods, and thus begun. I wish, ye Latins, what we now debate Had been resolv'd before it was too late: Much better had it been for you and me,Line 465 Unforc'd by this our last Necessity, To have been earlier wise; than now to call A Council, when the Foe surrounds the Wall. O Citizens! we wage unequal War, With men, not only Heav'n's peculiar Care,Line 470 But Heav'n's own Race: Unconquer'd in the Field, Or Conquer'd, yet unknowing how to yield. What Hopes you had in Diomede, lay down: Our Hopes must center on our selves alone. Yet those how feeble, and, indeed, how vain,Line 475 You see too well; nor need my Words explain. Vanquish'd without ressource; laid flat by Fate, Factions within, a Foe without the Gate; Not but I grant, that all perform'd their parts, With manly Force, and with undaunted Hearts:Line 480 With our united Strength the War we wag'd; With equal Numbers, equal Arms engag'd: You see th' Event.—Now hear what I propose, To save our Friends, and satisfie our Foes: A Tract of Land the Latins have possess'dLine 485 Along the Tyber, stretching to the West, Which now Rutulians and Auruncans till: And their mix'd Cattle graze the fruitful Hill; Those Mountains fill'd with Firs, that lower Land, If you consent, the Trojan shall Command.Line 490 Call'd into part of what is ours; and there, On terms agreed, the common Country share.

There let 'em build, and settle if they please; Unless they chuse once more to cross the Seas, In search of Seats remote from Italy;Line 495 And from unwelcome Inmates set us free. Then twice ten Gallies let us build with Speed, Or twice as many more, if more they need; Materials are at hand: A well-grown Wood Runs equal with the Margin of the Flood:Line 500 Let them the Number, and the Form assign; The Care and Cost of all the Stores be mine. To treat the Peace, a hundred Senators Shall be commission'd hence with ample Pow'rs; With Olive crown'd: The Presents they shall bear,Line 505 A Purple Robe, a Royal Iv'ry Chair; And all the marks of Sway that Latian Monarchs wear; And Sums of Gold. Among your selves debate This great Affair, and save the sinking State.

Then Drances took the word; who grudg'd, long since,Line 510 The rising Glories of the Daunian Prince. Factious and rich, bold at the Council Board, But cautious in the Field, he shun'd the Sword; A closs Caballer, and Tongue-valiant Lord. Noble his Mother was, and near the Throne,Line 515 But what his Father's Parentage, unknown. He rose, and took th' Advantage of the Times, To load young Turnus with invidious Crimes.

Such Truths, O King, said he, your Words contain, As strike the Sence, and all Replies are vain.Line 520 Nor are your Loyal Subjects now to seek What common Needs require; but fear to speak. Let him give leave of Speech, that haughty Man, Whose Pride this unauspicious War began: For whose Ambition (let me dare to say,Line 525 Fear set apart, tho' Death is in my Way)

The Plains of Latium run with Blood arround; So many Valiant Heros bite the Ground: Dejected Grief in ev'ry Face appears; A Town in Mourning, and a Land in Tears.Line 530 While he th' undoubted Author of our Harms, The Man who menaces the Gods with Arms, Yet, after all his Boasts, forsook the Fight, And sought his safety in ignoble Flight.

Now, best of Kings, since you propose to sendLine 535 Such bounteous Presents to your Trojan Friend; Add yet a greater at our joint Request, One which he values more than all the rest; Give him the fair Lavinia for his Bride: With that Alliance let the League be ty'd:Line 540 And for the bleeding Land a lasting Peace provide. Let Insolence no longer awe the Throne, But with a Father's Right bestow your own. For this Maligner of the general Good, If still we fear his Force, he must be woo'd:Line 545 His haughty Godhead we with Pray'rs implore, Your Scepter to release, and our just Rights restore. O cursed Cause of all our Ills, must we Wage Wars unjust, and fall in Fight for thee! What right hast thou to rule the Latian State,Line 550 And send us out to meet our certain Fate? 'Tis a destructive War; from Turnus Hand Our Peace and publick safety we demand. Let the fair Bride to the brave Chief remain; If not, the Peace without the Pledge is vain.Line 555 Turnus, I know you think me not your Friend, Nor will I much with your Belief contend: I beg your Greatness not to give the Law In others Realms, but, beaten, to withdraw. Line 560

Pity your own, or pity our Estate;Line 560 Nor twist our Fortunes with your sinking Fate. Your Interest is the War shou'd never cease; But we have felt enough, to wish the Peace: A Land exhausted to the last remains, Depopulated Towns, and driven Plains.Line 565 Yet, if desire of Fame, and thirst of Pow'r, A Beauteous Princess, with a Crown in Dow'r, So fire your Mind, in Arms assert your Right; And meet your Foe, who dares you to the Fight. Mankind, it seems, is made for you alone;Line 570 We, but the Slaves who mount you to the Throne: A base ignoble Crowd, without a Name, Unwept, unworthy of the Fun'ral Flame: By Duty bound to forfeit each his Life, That Turnus may possess a Royal Wife.Line 575 Permit not, Mighty Man, so mean a Crew Shou'd share such Triumphs; and detain from you The Post of Honour, your unquestion'd Due: Rather alone your matchless Force employ; To merit, what alone you must enjoy.Line 580

These Words, so full of Malice, mix'd with Art, Inflam'd with Rage the youthful Hero's Heart. Then groaning from the bottom of his Breast, He heav'd for Wind, and thus his Wrath express'd. You, Drances, never want a Stream of Words,Line 585 Then, when the Publick Need requires our Swords. First in the Council-hall to steer the State; And ever foremost at a Tongue debate. While our strong Walls secure us from the Foe, E're yet with Blood our Ditches overflow:Line 590 But let the potent Orator declaim, And with the brand of Coward blot my Name;

Free Leave is giv'n him, when his fatal Hand Has cover'd with more Corps the sanguine Strand; And high as mine his tow'ring Trophees stand.Line 595 If any Doubt remains who dares the most, Let us decide it at the Trojans cost: And issue both abrest, where Honour calls; Foes are not far to seek without the Walls. Unless his noisie Tongue can only fight;Line 600 And Feet were giv'n him but to speed his Flight. I beaten from the Field? I forc'd away? Who, but so known a Dastard, dares to say? Had he but ev'n beheld the Fight, his Eyes Had witness'd for me what his Tongue denies:Line 605 What heaps of Trojans by this Hand were slain, And how the bloody Tyber swell'd the Main. All saw, but he, th' Arcadian Troops retire, In scatter'd Squadrons, and their Prince expire. The Gyant Brothers, in their Camp, have foundLine 610 I was not forc'd with ease to quit my Ground. Not such the Trojans try'd me, when inclos'd, I singly their united Arms oppos'd: First forc'd an Entrance thro' their thick Array; Then, glutted with their Slaughter, freed my Way.Line 615 'Tis a destructive War? So let it be, But to the Phrygian Pirate, and to thee. Mean time proceed to fill the People's Ears With false Reports, their Minds with panick Fears: Extol the Strength of a twice conquer'd Race,Line 620 Our Foes encourage, and our Friends debase. Believe thy Fables, and the Trojan Town Triumphant stands, the Grecians are o'rethrown: Suppliant at Hector's Feet Achilles lyes; And Diomede from fierce Aeneas flies.Line 625

Say rapid Aufidus with awful Dread Runs backward from the Sea, and hides his Head, When the great Trojan on his Bank appears: For that's as true as thy dissembl'd Fears Of my Revenge: Dismiss that Vanity,Line 630 Thou, Drances, art below a Death from me. Let that vile Soul in that vile Body rest; The Lodging is well worthy of the Guest.

Now, Royal Father, to the present state Of our Affairs, and of this high Debate;Line 635 If in your Arms thus early you diffide, And think your Fortune is already try'd; If one Defeat has brought us down so low; As never more in Fields to meet the Foe; Then I conclude for Peace: 'Tis time to treat,Line 640 And lye like Vassals at the Victor's Feet. But oh, if any ancient Blood remains, One drop of all our Father's in our Veins; That Man would I prefer before the rest, Who dar'd his Death with an undaunted Breast;Line 645 Who comely fell, by no dishonest Wound, To shun that Sight; and dying gnaw'd the Ground. But if we still have fresh Recruits in store, If our Confederates can afford us more; If the contended Field we bravely fought;Line 650 And not a bloodless Victory was bought: Their Losses equall'd ours, and for their slain, With equal Fires they fill'd the shining Plain; Why thus unforc'd shou'd we so tamely yield; And e're the Trumpet sounds, resign the Field?Line 655 Good unexpected, Evils unforeseen, Appear by Turns, as Fortune shifts the Scene: Some, rais'd aloft, come tumbling down amain; Then fall so hard, they bound and rise again. Line 660

If Diomede refuse his Aid to lend,Line 660 The great Messapus yet remains our Friend: Tolumnius, who foretels Events, is ours; Th' Italian Chiefs, and Princes, joyn their Pow'rs: Nor least in Number, nor in Name the last, Your own brave Subjects have your Cause embrac'd.Line 665 Above the rest, the Volscian Amazon Contains an Army in her self alone: And heads a Squadron, terrible to sight, With glitt'ring Shields, in Brazen Armour bright. Yet if the Foe a single Fight demand,Line 670 And I alone the Publick Peace withstand; If you consent, he shall not be refus'd, Nor find a Hand to Victory unus'd. This new Achilles, let him take the Field, With fated Armour, and Vulcanian Shield;Line 675 For you, my Royal Father, and my Fame, I, Turnus, not the least of all my Name, Devote my Soul. He calls me hand to hand, And I alone will answer his Demand. Drances shall rest secure, and neither shareLine 680 The Danger, nor divide the Prize of War.

While they debate; nor these nor those will yield; Aeneas draws his Forces to the Field: And moves his Camp. The Scouts, with flying Speed Return, and thro' the frighted City spreadLine 685 Th' unpleasing News, the Trojans are descry'd, In Battel marching by the River side; And bending to the Town. They take th' Allarm, Some tremble, some are bold, all in Confusion arm. Th' impetuous Youth press forward to the Field;Line 690 They clash the Sword, and clatter on the Shield: The fearful Matrons raise a screaming Cry; Old feeble Men with fainter Groans reply: A jarring Sound results, and mingles in the Sky. Line 695

Like that of Swans remurm'ring to the Floods;Line 695 Or Birds of diff'ring kinds in hollow Woods. Turnus th' occasion takes, and cries aloud, Talk on, ye quaint Haranguers of the Crowd: Declaim in praise of Peace, when Danger calls; And the fierce Foes in Arms approach the Walls.Line 700 He said, and turning short, with speedy Pace, Casts back a scornful Glance, and quits the Place.

Thou, Volusus, the Volscian Troops command To mount; and lead thy self our Ardean Band. Messapus, and Catillus, post your ForceLine 705 Along the Fields, to charge the Trojan Horse. Some guard the Passes, others man the Wall; Drawn up in Arms, the rest attend my Call.

They swarm from ev'ry Quarter of the Town; And with disorder'd haste the Rampires crown.Line 710 Good old Latinus, when he saw, too late, The gath'ring Storm, just breaking on the State, Dismiss'd the Council, 'till a fitter time. And own'd his easie Temper as his Crime: Who, forc'd against his reason, had comply'dLine 715 To break the Treaty for the promis'd Bride.

Some help to sink new Trenches, others aid To ram the Stones, or raise the Palisade. Hoarse Trumpets sound th' Alarm: Around the Walls Runs a distracted Crew, whom their last Labour calls.Line 720 A sad Procession in the Streets is seen, Of Matrons that attend the Mother Queen: High in her Chair she sits, and at her side, With downcast Eyes appears the fatal Bride. They mount the Cliff, where Pallas's Temple stands;Line 725 Pray'rs in their Mouths, and Presents in their Hands: With Censers, first they fume the sacred Shrine; Then in this common Supplication joyn.

O Patroness of Arms, unspotted Maid, Propitious hear, and lend thy Latins Aid:Line 730 Break short the Pirat's Lance; pronounce his Fate, And lay the Phrygian low before the Gate. Now Turnus arms for Fight: His Back and Breast, Well temper'd Steel, and scaly Brass invest: The Cuishes, which his brawny Thighs infold,Line 735 Are mingled Metal damask'd o're with Gold. His faithful Fauchion sits upon his side; Nor Casque, nor Crest, his manly Features hide: But bare to view, amid surrounding Friends, With Godlike Grace, he from the Tow'r descends.Line 740 Exulting in his Strength, he seems to dare His absent Rival, and to promise War.

Freed from his Keepers, thus with broken Reins, The wanton Courser prances o're the Plains: Or in the Pride of Youth o'releaps the Mounds;Line 745 And snuffs the Females in forbidden Grounds. Or seeks his wat'ring in the well known Flood, To quench his Thirst, and cool his fiery Blood: He swims luxuriant, in the liquid Plain, And o're his Shoulder flows his waving Mane:Line 750 He neighs, he snorts, he bears his Head on high; Before his ample Chest the frothy Waters fly.

Soon as the Prince appears without the Gate, The Volcians, with their Virgin Leader, wait His last Commands. Then with a graceful Meen,Line 755 Lights from her lofty Steed, the Warrior Queen: Her Squadron imitates, and each descends; Whose common Sute Camilla thus commends.

If Sence of Honour, if a Soul secure Of inborn Worth, that can all Tests endure,Line 760 Can promise ought; or on it self rely, Greatly to dare, to conquer or to dye:

Then, I alone, sustain'd by these, will meet The Tyrrhene Troops, and promise their Defeat. Ours be the Danger, ours the sole Renown;Line 765 You, Gen'ral, stay behind, and guard the Town.

Turnus a while stood mute, with glad Surprize, And on the fierce Virago fix'd his Eyes: Then thus return'd: O Grace of Italy, With what becoming Thanks can I reply!Line 770 Not only Words lye lab'ring in my Breast; But Thought it self is by thy Praise opprest. Yet rob me not of all, but let me join My Toils, my Hazard, and my Fame, with thine. The Trojan, (not in Stratagem unskill'd,)Line 775 Sends his light Foot before to scour the Field: Himself, thro' steep Ascents, and thorny Brakes, A larger Compass to the City takes. This news my Scouts confirm: And I prepare To foil his Cunning, and his Force to dare.Line 780 With chosen Foot his Passage to forelay; And place an Ambush in the winding way. Thou, with thy Volscians, face the Tuscan Horse: The brave Messapus shall thy Troops inforce; With those of Tibur; and the Latian Band:Line 785 Subjected all to thy Supream Command.

This said, he warns Messapus to the War: Then ev'ry Chief exhorts, with equal Care. All thus encourag'd, his own Troops he joins, And hastes to prosecute his deep Designs.Line 790

Inclos'd with Hills, a winding Valley lies, By Nature form'd for Fraud, and fitted for Surprize: A narrow Track, by Human Steps untrode, Leads, thro' perplexing Thorns, to this obscure abode. High o're the Vale a steepy Mountain stands;Line 975 Whence the surveying Sight the neather Ground commands.

The top is level: an offensive Seat Of War; and from the War a safe Retreat. For, on the right, and left, is room to press The Foes at hand, or from afar distress:Line 780 To drive 'em headlong downward; and to pour On their descending backs, a stony show'r. Thither young Turnus took the well known way; Possess'd the Pass, and in blind Ambush lay.

Mean time, Latonian Phoebe from the Skies,Line 785 Beheld th' approaching War with hateful Eies. And call'd the light-foot Opis, to her aid, Her most belov'd, and ever trusty Maid. Then with a sigh began: Camilla goes To meet her Death, amidst her Fatal Foes.Line 790 The Nymph I lov'd of all my Mortal Train; Invested with Diana's Arms, in vain. Nor is my kindness for the Virgin, new, 'Twas born with Her, and with her Years it grew: Her Father Metabus, when forc'd awayLine 795 From old Privernum, for Tyrannick sway; Snatch'd up, and sav'd from his prevailing Foes, This tender Babe, Companion of his Woes. Casmilla was her Mother; but he drown'd, One hissing Letter in a softer sound,Line 800 And call'd Camilla. Thro the Woods, he flies; Wrap'd in his Robe the Royal Infant lies. His Foes in sight, he mends his weary pace; With shouts and clamours they pursue the Chace. The Banks of Amasene at length he gains;Line 805 The raging Flood his farther flight restrains: Rais'd o're the Borders with unusual Rains. Prepar'd to Plunge into the Stream, He fears: Not for himself, but for the Charge he bears. Line 810

Anxious he stops a while; and thinks in haste;Line 810 Then, desp'rate in Distress, resolves at last. A knotty Lance of well-boil'd Oak he bore; The middle part with Cork he cover'd o're: He clos'd the Child within the hollow Space; With Twigs of bending Osier bound the Case.Line 815 Then pois'd the Spear, heavy with Human Weight; And thus invok'd my Favour for the Freight. Accept, great Goddess of the Woods, he said, Sent by her Sire, this dedicated Maid: Thro' Air she flies a Suppliant to thy Shrine;Line 820 And the first Weapons that she knows, are thine. He said; and with full Force the Spear he threw: Above the sounding Waves Camilla flew. Then, press'd by Foes, he stemm'd the stormy Tyde; And gain'd, by stress of Arms, the farther Side.Line 825 His fasten'd Spear he pull'd from out the Ground; And, Victor of his Vows, his Infant Nymph unbound. Nor after that, in Towns which Walls inclose, Wou'd trust his hunted Life amidst his Foes. But rough, in open Air he chose to lye:Line 830 Earth was his Couch, his Cov'ring was the Sky. On Hills unshorn, or in a desart Den, He shunn'd the dire Society of Men. A Shepherd's solitary Life he led: His Daughter with the Milk of Mares he fed;Line 835 The Dugs of Bears, and ev'ry Salvage Beast, He drew, and thro' her Lips the Liquor press'd. The little Amazon cou'd scarcely go, He loads her with a Quiver and a Bow: And, that she might her stagg'ring Steps command,Line 840 He with a slender Jav'lin fills her Hand: Her flowing Hair no golden Fillet bound; Nor swept her trayling Robe the dusty Ground.

Instead of these, a Tyger's Hide o'respread Her Back and Shoulders, fasten'd to her Head.Line 845 The flying Dart she first attempts to fling; And round her tender Temples toss'd the Sling: Then, as her Strength with Years increas'd, began To pierce aloft in Air the soaring Swan: And from the Clouds to fetch the Heron and the Crane.Line 850 The TuscanMatrons with each other vy'd, To bless their Rival Sons with such a Bride: But she disdains their Love; to share with me The Silvan Shades, and vow'd Virginity. And, oh! I wish, contented with my CaresLine 855 Of Salvage Spoils, she had not sought the Wars: Then had she been of my Coelestial Train; And shun'd the Fate that dooms her to be slain. But, since opposing Heav'n's Decree, she goes To find her Death among forbidden Foes;Line 860 Haste with these Arms, and take thy steepy flight, Where, with the Gods averse, the Latins fight: This Bow to thee, this Quiver, I bequeath, This chosen Arrow to revenge her Death. By what e're Hand Camilla shall be slain,Line 865 Or of the Trojan, or Italian Train, Let him not pass unpunish'd from the Plain. Then, in a hollow Cloud, my self will Aid, To bear the breathless Body of my Maid: Unspoil'd shall be her Arms, and unprofan'dLine 870 Her holy Limbs with any Human Hand: And in a Marble Tomb laid in her Native Land.

She said: The faithful Nymph descends from high With rapid flight, and cuts the sounding Sky; Black Clouds and stormy Winds around her Body fly.Line 875

By this, the Trojan and the Tuscan Horse, Drawn up in Squadrons, with united Force,

Approach the Walls; the sprightly Coursers bound; Press forward on their Bitts, and shift their Ground: Shields, Arms, and Spears, flash horrible from far;Line 880 And the Fields glitter with a waving War. Oppos'd to these, come on with furious Force, Messapus, Coras, and the Latian Horse; These in the Body plac'd; on either hand Sustain'd, and clos'd by fair Camilla's Band.Line 885 Advancing in a Line, they couch their Spears; And less and less the middle Space appears. Thick Smoak obscures the Field: And scarce are seen The neighing Coursers, and the shouting Men. In distance of their Darts they stop their Course;Line 890 Then Man to Man they rush, and Horse to Horse. The face of Heav'n their flying Jav'lins hide; And Deaths unseen are dealt on either side. Tyrrhenus, and Aconteus, void of Fear, By metled Coursers born in full Carreer,Line 895 Meet first oppos'd: and, with a mighty Shock, Their Horses Heads against each other knock. Far from his Steed is fierce Aconteus cast; As with an Engin's force, or Lightning's blast: He rowls along in Blood, and breathes his last.Line 900 The Latin Squadrons take a sudden fright; And sling their Shields behind, to save their Backs in flight. Spurring at speed to their own Walls they drew; Close in the rear the Tuscan Troops pursue: And urge their flight. Asylas leads the Chase;Line 905 'Till seiz'd with Shame they wheel about and face: Receive their Foes, and raise a threat'ning Cry: The Tuscans take their turn to fear and fly.

So swelling Surges, with a thund'ring Roar, Driv'n on each others Backs, insult the Shoar;Line 910

Bound o're the Rocks, incroach upon the Land; And far upon the Beach eject the Sand. Then backward with a Swing, they take their Way; Repuls'd from upper Ground, and seek their Mother Sea: With equal hurry quit th' invaded Shore;Line 915 And swallow back the Sand, and Stones they spew'd before. Twice were the Tuscans Masters of the Field, Twice by the Latins, in their turn repell'd. Asham'd at length, to the third Charge they ran Both Hoasts resolv'd, and mingled Man to Man:Line 920 Now dying Groans are heard, the Fields are strow'd With falling Bodies, and are drunk with Blood: Arms, Horses, Men, on heaps together lye: Confus'd the Fight, and more confus'd the Cry. Orsilochus, who durst not press too nearLine 925 Strong Remulus, at distance drove his Spear; And stuck the Steel beneath his Horses Ear: The fiery Steed, impatient of the Wound, Curvets, and springing upward with a Bound, His helpless Lord cast backward on the Ground.Line 930 Catillus pierc'd Iolas first; then drew His reeking Lance, and at Herminius threw: The mighty Champion of the Tuscan Crew. His Neck and Throat unarm'd, his Head was bare, But shaded with a length of yellow Hair:Line 935 Secure, he fought, expos'd on ev'ry part, A spacious mark for Swords, and for the Dart: Across the Shoulders came the flying Wound; Transfix'd, he fell, and doubled to the Ground.

The Sands with streaming Blood are sanguine dy'd;Line 940 And Death with Honour, sought on either side.

Resistless through the War, Camilla rode; In Danger unappall'd, and pleas'd with Blood.

One side was bare for her exerted Brest; One Shoulder with her painted Quiver press'd.Line 945 Now from afar her Fatal Jav'lins play; Now with her Axe's edge she hews her Way: Diana's Arms upon her Shoulder found; And when, too closely press'd, she quits the Ground; From her bent Bow she sends a backward Wound.Line 950 Her Maids, in Martial Pomp, on either side, Larina, Tulla, fierce Tarpeia ride; Italians all: in Peace, their Queen's delight: In War the bold Companions of the Fight.

So march'd the Thracian Amazons of old,Line 955 When Thermodon with bloody Billows rowl'd: Such Troops as these in shining Arms were seen; When Theseus met in Fight their Maiden Queen. Such to the Field Penthisilea led, From the fierce Virgin when the Grecians fled:Line 960 With such, return'd Triumphant from the War; Her Maids with Cries attend the lofty Carr: They clash with manly force their Moony Shields; With Female Showts refound the Phrygian Fields.

Who formost, and who last, Heroick Maid,Line 965 On the cold Earth were by thy Courage laid? Thy Spear, of Mountain Ash, Eumenius first, With fury driv'n, from side to side transpierc'd: A purple Stream came spowting from the Wound; Bath'd in his Blood he lies, and bites the Ground.Line 970 Lyris and Pagasus at once she slew; The former, as the slacken'd Reins he drew, Of his faint steed: the latter, as he stretch'd His Arm to prop his Friend, the Jav'lin reach'd. By the same Weapon, sent from the same Hand,Line 975 Both fall together, and both spurn the Sand.

Amastrus next is added to the slain: The rest in Rout she follows o're the Plain. Tereus, Harpalicus, Demophoon, And Chromys, at full Speed her Fury shun.Line 980 Of all her deadly Darts, not one she lost; Each was attended with a Trojan Ghost. Young Ornithus bestrode a Hunter Steed, Swift for the Chase, and of Apulian Breed: Him, from afar, she spy'd in Arms unknown;Line 985 O're his broad Back an Oxes hide was thrown: His Helm a Wolf, whose gaping Jaws were spread, A cov'ring for his Cheeks, and grinn'd around his Head. He clench'd within his Hand an Iron Prong; And tow'rd above the rest, conspicuous in the Throng.Line 990 Him soon she singled from the flying Train, And slew with ease: Then thus insults the slain. Vain Hunter didst thou think thro' Woods to chase The Salvage Herd, a vile and trembling Race: Here cease thy Vaunts, and own my Victory;Line 995 A Woman-Warrior was too strong for thee. Yet if the Ghosts demand the Conqu'ror's Name, Confessing great Camilla, save thy Shame. Then Butes, and Orsilochus, she slew: The bulkiest Bodies of the Trojan Crew.Line 1000 But Butes Breast to Breast: the Spear descends Above the Gorget, where his Helmet ends; And o're the Shield which his left Side defends. Orsilochus and she, their Coursers ply; He seems to follow, and she seems to fly.Line 1005 But in a narrower Ring she makes the Race; And then he flies, and she pursues the Chase. Gath'ring at length on her deluded Foe, She swings her Axe, and rises to the Blow:

[illustration]

To the Right Hon^ble▪ William Berkley Baron Berkley of Stratton &^ct.

AE. 11. l. 1035.

Full on the Helm behind, with such a swayLine 1010 The Weapon falls, the riven Steel gives way: He groans, he roars, he sues in vain for Grace; Brains, mingled with his Blood, besmear his Face. Astonish'd Aunus just arrives by Chance, To see his Fall, nor farther dares advance:Line 1015 But fixing on the horrid Maid his Eye, He stares, and shakes, and finds it vain to fly. Yet like a true Ligurian, born to cheat, (At least while Fortune favour'd his Deceit) Cries out aloud, what Courage have you shown,Line 1020 Who trust your Coursers Strength, and not your own? Forego the vantage of your Horse, alight, And then on equal Terms begin the Fight: It shall be seen, weak Woman, what you can, When Foot to Foot, you combat with a Man.Line 1025 He said: She glows with Anger and Disdain, Dismounts with speed to dare him on the Plain; And leaves her Horse at large among her Train. With her drawn Sword defies him to the Field; And marching, lifts aloft her maiden Shield:Line 1030 The Youth, who thought his Cunning did succeed, Reins round his Horse, and urges all his Speed. Adds the remembrance of the Spur, and hides The goring Rowels in his bleeding Sides. Vain Fool, and Coward, cries the lofty Maid,Line 1035 Caught in the Train, which thou thy self hast laid! On others practise thy Ligurian Arts; Thin Stratagems, and Tricks of little Hearts Are lost on me. Nor shalt thou safe retire, With vaunting Lyes to thy fallacious Sire.Line 1040 At this, so fast her flying Feet she sped, That soon she strain'd beyond his Horse's Head:

Then turning short, at once she seiz'd the Rein, And laid the Boaster grov'ling on the Plain. Not with more ease the Falcon from above,Line 1045 Trusses, in middle Air, the trembling Drove: Then Plumes the Prey, in her strong Pounces bound: The Feathers foul with Blood come tumbling to the ground.

Now mighty Jove, from his superior height, With his broad Eye surveys th' unequal Fight.Line 1050 He fires the Breast of Tarchon with Disdain; And sends him to redeem th' abandon'd Plain. Betwixt the broken Ranks the Tuscan rides, And these encourages, and those he chides: Recalls each Leader, by his Name, from flight;Line 1055 Renews their Ardour; and restores the Fight. What Panick Fear has seiz'd your Souls, O shame, O Brand perpetual of th' Etrurian Name; Cowards incurable, a Woman's Hand Drives, breaks, and scatters your ignoble Band!Line 1060 Now cast away the Sword, and quit the Shield: What use of Weapons which you dare not wield? Not thus you fly your Female Foes, by Night, Nor shun the Feast, when the full Bowls invite: When to fat Off'rings the glad Augur calls;Line 1065 And the shrill Horn-pipe sounds to Bacchanals. These are your study'd Cares; your lewd Delight; Swift to debauch; but slow to Manly Fight. Thus having said, he spurs amid the Foes; Not managing the Life he meant to lose.Line 1070 The first he found he seiz'd, with headlong haste, In his strong Gripe; and clasp'd around the Waste: 'Twas Venulus; whom from his Horse he tore, And, (laid athwart his own,) in Triumph bore. Loud Shouts ensue: The Latins turn their Eyes,Line 1075 And view th' unusual sight with vast Surprize.

The fiery Tarchon, flying o're the Plains, Press'd in his Arms the pond'rous Prey sustains: Then, with his shorten'd Spear, explores around His jointed Arms, to fix a deadly Wound.Line 1080 Nor less the Captive struggles for his Life; He writhes his Body to prolong the Strife: And, fencing for his naked Throat, exerts His utmost Vigour, and the point averts.

So stoops the yellow Eagle from on high,Line 1085 And bears a speckled Serpent thro' the Sky; Fast'ning his crooked Tallons on the Prey: The Pris'ner hisses thro' the liquid Way, Resists the Royal Hawk, and tho' opprest, She fights in Volumes, and erects her Crest:Line 1090 Turn'd to her Foe, she stiffens ev'ry Scale; And shoots her forky Tongue, and whisks her threat'ning Tail. Against the Victour all Defence is weak; Th' imperial Bird still plies her with his Beak: He tears her Bowels, and her Breast he gores;Line 1095 Then claps his Pinions, and securely soars.

Thus, thro' the midst of circling Enemies, Strong Tarchon snatch'd and bore away his Prize: The Tyrrhene Troops, that shrunk before, now press The Latins, and presume the like Success.Line 1100

Then, Aruns doom'd to Death, his Arts assay'd To murther, unespy'd, the Volscian Maid, This way, and that his winding Course he bends; And wheresoe're she turns, her Steps attends. When she retires victorious from the Chase,Line 1105 He wheels about with Care, and shifts his place: When rushing on, she seeks her Foes in Fight, He keeps aloof, but keeps her still in sight: He threats, and trembles, trying ev'ry Way Unseen to kill, and safely to betray.Line 1110

Chloreus, the Priest of Cybele, from far, Glitt'ring in Phrygian Arms amidst the War, Was by the Virgin view'd: The Steed he press'd Was proud with Trappings; and his brawny Chest With Scales of guilded Brass was cover'd o're:Line 1115 A Robe of Tyrian Dye the Rider wore. With deadly Wounds he gaul'd the distant Eoe; Gnossian his Shafts, and Lycian was his Bow: A Golden Helm his Front, and head surrounds; A guilded Quiver from his Shoulder sounds.Line 1120 Gold, weav'd with Linen, on his Thighs he wore: With Flowers of Needlework distinguish'd o're: With Golden Buckles bound, and gather'd up before. Him, the fierce Maid beheld with ardent Eyes; Fond and Ambitious of so Rich a Prize:Line 1125 Or that the Temple might his Trophees hold, Or else to shine her self in Trojan Gold: Blind in her haste, she chases him alone, And seeks his Life, regardless of her own. This lucky Moment the slye Traytor chose:Line 1130 Then, starting from his Ambush up he rose, And threw, but first to Heav'n address'd his Vows. O Patron of Soractes high Abodes, Phoebus the Ruling Pow'r among the Gods; Whom first we serve, whole Woods of unctuous PineLine 1135 Are fell'd for thee, and to thy Glory shine; By thee protected, with our naked Soles, Thro' Flames unsing'd we march, and tread the kindled Coals: Give me, propitious Pow'r, to wash away The Stains of this dishonourable Day:Line 1140 Nor Spoils, nor Triumph, from the Fact I claim; But with my future Actions trust my Fame. Let me, by stealth; this Female Plague o'recome; And from the Field, return inglorious home.

[illustration]

To Arthur Manwaringe of Ightfield in the County of Salop Esq^r:

AE. 11. l. 1150.

Apollo heard, and granting half his Pray'r,Line 1145 Shuffled in Winds the rest, and toss'd in empty Air. He gives the Death desir'd; his safe return, By Southern Tempests to the Seas is born.

Now, when the Jav'lin whizz'd along the Skies, Both Armies on Camilla turn'd their Eyes,Line 1150 Directed by the Sound: Of either Host, Th' unhappy Virgin, tho' concern'd the most, Was only deaf; so greedy was she bent On Golden Spoils, and on her Prey intent: Till in her Pap the winged Weapon stoodLine 1155 Infix'd; and deeply drunk the purple Blood. Her sad Attendants hasten to sustain Their dying Lady drooping on the Plain. Far from their sight the trembling Aruns flies, With beating Heart, and Fear confus'd with Joys;Line 1160 Nor dares he farther to pursue his Blow; Or ev'n to bear the sight of his expiring Foe.

As when the Wolf has torn a Bullocks Hide, At unawares, or ranch'd the Shepherd's Side: Conscious of his audacious deed, he flies,Line 1165 And claps his quiv'ring Tail between his Thighs: So, speeding once, the Wretch no more attends; But spurring forward herds among his Friends. She wrench'd the Jav'lin with her dying Hands; But wedg'd within her Breast the Weapon stands:Line 1170 The Wood she draws, the steely Point remains, She staggers in her Seat, with agonizing Pains: A gath'ring Mist o'reclouds her chearful Eyes; And from her Cheeks the rosie Colour flies. Then, turns to her, whom, of her Female Train,Line 1175 She trusted most, and thus she speaks with Pain. Acca, 'tis past! He swims before my sight, Inexorable Death; and claims his right.

Bear my last Words to Turnus, fly with speed, And bid him timely to my Charge succeed:Line 1180 Repel the Trojans, and the Town relieve: Farewel; and in this Kiss my parting Breath receive. She said; and sliding, sunk upon the Plain; Dying, her open'd Hand forsakes the Rein; Short, and more short, she pants: By slow degreesLine 1185 Her Mind the Passage from her Body frees. She drops her Sword, she nods her plumy Crest; Her drooping Head declining on her Breast: In the last Sigh her strugling Soul expires; And murm'ring with Disdain, to Stygian Sounds retires.Line 1190

A Shout, that struck the Golden Stars, ensu'd: Despair and Rage, the languish'd Fight renew'd. The Trojan Troops, and Tuscans in a Line, Advance to charge; the mix'd Arcadians join.

But Cynthia's Maid, high seated, from afarLine 1195 Surveys the Field, and fortune of the War: Unmov'd a while, 'till prostrate on the Plain, Welt'ring in Blood, she sees Camilla slain; And round her Corps, of Friends and Foes a fighting Train. Then, from the bottom of her Breast, she drewLine 1200 A mournful Sigh, and these sad Words ensue: Too dear a Fine, ah much lamented Maid, For warring with the Trojans, thou hast paid! Nor ought avail'd, in this unhappy Strife, Diana's sacred Arms, to save thy Life.Line 1205 Yet unreveng'd thy Goddess will not leave Her Vot'rys Death, nor with vain Sorrow grieve. Branded the Wretch, and be his Name abhorr'd; But after Ages shall thy Praise record. Th' inglorious Coward soon shall press the Plain;Line 1210 Thus vows thy Queen, and thus the Fates ordain.

High o're the Field, there stood a hilly Mound; Sacred the Place, and spread with Oaks around;Line 1215 Where, in a Marble Tomb, Dercennus lay, A King that once in Latium bore the Sway. The beauteous Opis thither bent her flight, To mark the Traytor Aruns, from the height. Him, in refulgent Arms she soon espy'd, Swoln with success, and loudly thus she cry'd. Thy backward steps, vain boaster, are too late;Line 1220 Turn, like a Man at length, and meet thy Fate. Charg'd with my Message to Camilla go; And say I sent thee to the Shades below; An Honour undeserv'd from Cynthia's Bow.

She said: and from her Quiver chose with speedLine 1225 The winged Shaft, predestin'd for the Deed: Then, to the stubborn Eugh her strength apply'd; Till the far distant Horns approach'd on either side. The Bow-string touch'd her Breast, so strong she drew; Whizzing in Air the fatal Arrow flew.Line 1230 At once the twanging Bow, and sounding Dart The Traytor heard, and felt the point within his heart. Him, beating with his heels, in pangs of death, His flying Friends to foreign Fields bequeath. The Conqu'ring Damsel, with expanded Wings,Line 1235 The welcome Message to her Mistress brings.

Their Leader lost, the Volscians quit the Field; And, unsustain'd, the Chiefs of Turnus yield. The frighted Souldiers, when their Captains fly, More on their speed than on their Strength rely.Line 1240 Confus'd in flight, they bear each other down: And spur their Horses headlong to the Town. Driv'n by their Foes, and to their Fears resign'd, Not once they turn; but take their Wounds behind. Line 1245

These drop the Shield, and those the Lance forego;Line 1245 Or on their Shoulders bear the slacken'd Bow. The Hoofs of Horses with a ratling sound, Beat short, and thick, and shake the rotten ground. Black clouds of dust, come rowling in the Sky, And o're the darken'd Walls, and Rampires fly.Line 1250 The trembling Matrons, from their lofty Stands, Rend Heav'n with Female Shrieks; and wring their Hands All pressing on, Pursuers and pursu'd, Are crush'd in Crowds, a Mingled multitude. Some happy few escape: the Throng too lateLine 1255 Rush on for Entrance, till they choak the Gate. Ev'n in the sight of home, the wretched Sire Looks on, and sees his helpless Son expire. Then, in a fright, the folding Gates they close: But leave their Friends excluded with their Foes.Line 1260 The vanquish'd cry; the Victors loudly shout; Tis Terror all within; and Slaughter all without. Blind in their Fear, they bounce against the wall, Or to their Moats pursu'd, precipitate their fall.

The Latian Virgins, valiant with despair,Line 1265 Arm'd on the Towr's the Common Danger share: So much of Zeal their Country's Cause inspir'd; So much Camilla's great Example fir'd. Poles, sharpen'd in the flames, from high they throw; With imitated Darts to gaul the Foe.Line 1270 Their Lives, for Godlike freedom they bequeath; And crowd each other to be first in death. Mean time, to Turnus, ambush'd in the shade, With heavy tydings, came th' Unhappy Maid. The Volscians overthrown, Camilla kill'd,Line 1275 The Foes entirely Masters of the Field, Like a resistless Flood, come rowling on: The cry goes off the Plain, and thickens to the Town.

Inflam'd with Rage, (for so the Furies fire The Daunian's Breast, and so the Fates require,)Line 1280 He leaves the hilly Pass, the Woods in vain Possess'd, and downward issues on the Plain: Scarce was he gone, when to the Streights, now freed From secret Foes, the Trojan Troops succeed. Thro' the black Forest, and the ferny Brake,Line 1285 Unknowingly secure, their Way they take. From the rough Mountains to the Plain descend; And there, in Order drawn, their Line extend. Both Armies, now, in open Fields are seen: Nor far the distance of the Space between.Line 1290 Both to the City bend: Aeneas sees, Thro' smoaking Fields, his hast'ning Enemies. And Turnus views the Trojans in Array, And hears th' approaching Horses proudly neigh. Soon had their Hoasts in bloody Battel join'd;Line 1295 But westward to the Sea the Sun declin'd. Intrench'd before the Town, both Armies lye: While Night with sable Wings o'respreads the Sky.

The Twelfth Book of the Aeneis.

The Argument.

Turnus challenges Aeneas to a single Combat: Articles are agreed on, but broken by the Rutili, who wound Aeneas: He is mi∣raculously cur'd by Venus, forces Turnus to a Duel, and con∣cludes the Poem with his Death.

WHen Turnus saw the Latins leave the Field; Their Armies broken, and their Courage quell'd; Himself become the Mark of publick Spight, His Honour question'd for the promis'd Fight: The more he was with Vulgar hate oppress'd;Line 5 The more his Fury boil'd within his Breast: He rowz'd his Vigour for the last Debate; And rais'd his haughty Soul, to meet his Fate.

As when the Swains the Lybian Lion chase, He makes a sour Retreat, nor mends his Pace;Line 10 But if the pointed Jav'lin pierce his Side, The lordly Beast returns with double Pride: He wrenches out the Steel, he roars for Pain; His sides he lashes, and erects his Mane. So Turnus fares; his Eye-balls flash with Fire,Line 15 And his wide Nostrils Clouds of Smoke expire.

Trembling with Rage, around the Court he ran; At length approach'd the King, and thus began. No more excuses or Delays: I stand In Arms prepar'd to Combat, hand to hand,Line 20 This base Deserter of his Native Land. The Trojan, by his Word, is bound to take The same Conditions which himself did make.

[illustration]

To y^e Right Hon^ble: Phillip Lord Stanhope Earle of Chesterfield Baron of Shelford in the Kingdom of England

AE. 12. l. 1.

Renew the Truce, the solemn Rites prepare; And to my single Virtue trust the War.Line 25 The Latians unconcern'd shall see the Fight; This Arm unaided shall assert your Right: Then, if my prostrate Body press the Plain, To him the Crown, and beauteous Bride remain.

To whom the King sedately thus reply'd;Line 30 Brave Youth, the more your Valour has been try'd, The more becomes it us, with due Respect To weigh the chance of War, which you neglect. You want not Wealth, or a successive Throne, Or Cities, which your Arms have made your own;Line 35 My Towns and Treasures are at your Command; And stor'd with blooming Beauties is my Land: Laurentum more than one Lavinia sees, Unmarry'd, fair, of Noble Families. Now let me speak; and you with Patience hear,Line 40 Things which perhaps may grate a Lover's Ear: But sound Advice, proceeding from a heart, Sincerely yours, and free from fraudful Art.

The Gods, by Signs, have manifestly shown, No Prince, Italian born, shou'd heir my Throne:Line 45 Oft have our Augurs, in Prediction skill'd, And oft our Priests, a Foreign Son reveal'd. Yet, won by Worth, that cannot be withstood, Brib'd by my Kindness to my kindred Blood, Urg'd by my Wife, who wou'd not be deny'd;Line 50 I promis'd my Lavinia for your Bride: Her from her plighted Lord by force I took; All tyes of Treaties, and of Honour broke: On your Account I wag'd an impious War, With what Success 'tis needless to declare;Line 55 I, and my Subjects feel; and you have had your Share.

Twice vanquish'd, while in bloody Fields we strive, Scarce in our Walls, we keep our Hopes alive: The rowling Flood runs warm with human Gore; The Bones of Latians, blanch the neighb'ring Shore:Line 60 Why put I not an end to this Debate, Still unresolv'd, and still a Slave to Fate? If Turnus's Death a lasting Peace can give, Why shou'd I not procure it, while you live. Shou'd I to doubtful Arms your Youth betray,Line 65 What wou'd my Kinsmen, the Rutulians, say? And shou'd you fall in Fight, (which Heav'n defend) How curse the Cause, which hasten'd to his end, The Daughter's Lover, and the Father's Friend? Weigh in your Mind, the various Chance of War,Line 70 Pity your Parent's Age; and ease his Care.

Such balmy Words he pour'd, but all in vain; The proffer'd Med'cine but provok'd the Pain. The wrathful Youth disdaining the Relief, With intermitting Sobs, thus vents his Grief.Line 75 The care, O best of Fathers, which you take For my Concerns, at my Desire, forsake. Permit me not to languish out my Days; But make the best exchange of Life for Praise. This Arm, this Lance, can well dispute the Prize;Line 80 And the Blood follows, where the Weapon flies: His Goddess Mother is not near, to shrowd The flying Coward, with an empty Cloud.

But now the Queen, who fear'd for Turnus Life, And loath'd the hard Conditions of the Strife,Line 85 Held him by Force; and, dying in his Death, In these sad Accents gave her Sorrow breath. O Turnus I adjure thee by these Tears; And what e're price Amata's Honour bears Line 90

Within thy Breast, since thou art all my hope,Line 90 My sickly Mind's repose, my sinking Age's Prop; Since on the safety of thy Life alone, Depends Latinus, and the Latian Throne: Refuse me not this one, this only Pray'r; To wave the Combat, and pursue the War.Line 95 Whatever chance attends this fatal Strife, Think it includes in thine Amata's Life. I cannot live a Slave; or see my Throne Usurp'd by Strangers, or a Trojan Son.

At this, a Flood of Tears Lavinia shed;Line 100 A crimson Blush her beauteous Face o'respread; Varying her Cheeks by Turns, with white and red. The driving Colours, never at a stay, Run here and there; and flush, and fade away. Delightful change! Thus Indian Iv'ry shows,Line 105 Which with the bord'ring Paint of Purple glows; Or Lillies damask'd by the neighb'ring Rose. The Lover gaz'd, and burning with desire, The more he look'd, the more he fed the Fire: Revenge, and jealous Rage, and secret Spight;Line 110 Rowl in his Breast, and rowze him to the Fight.

Then fixing on the Queen his ardent Eyes, Firm to his first intent, he thus replies. O Mother, do not by your Tears prepare Such boding Omens, and prejudge the War.Line 115 Resolv'd on Fight, I am no longer free To shun my Death, if Heav'n my Death decree.

Then turning to the Herald, thus pursues; Go, greet the Trojan with ungrateful News, Denounce from me, that when to Morrow's LightLine 120 Shall guild the Heav'ns, he need not urge the Fight: The Trojan and Rutulian Troops, no more Shall dye, with mutual Blood, the Latian Shore:

Our single Swords the Quarrel shall decide, And to the Victor be the beauteous Bride.Line 125

He said, and striding on, with speedy Pace, He sought his Coursers of the Thracian Race. At his Approach, they toss their Heads on high; And proudly neighing, promise Victory. The Sires of these Orythia sent from far,Line 130 To grace Pilumnus, when he went to War. The drifts of Thracian Snows were scarce so white Nor Northern Winds in fleetness match'd their Flight. Officious Grooms stand ready by his Side; And some with Combs their flowing Manes divide,Line 135 And others stroke their Chests, and gently sooth their Pride.

He sheath'd his Limbs in Arms; a temper'd Mass Of golden Metal those, and Mountain Brass. Then to his Head his glitt'ring Helm he ty'd; And girt his faithful Fauchion to his side.Line 140 In his Aetnean Forge, the God of Fire That Fauchion labour'd sor the Hero's Sire: Immortal Keenness on the Blade bestow'd, And plung'd it hissing in the Stygian Flood. Prop'd on a Pillar, which the Ceiling bore,Line 145 Was plac'd the Lance Auruncan Actor wore; Which with such Force he brandish'd in his Hand, The tough Ash trembled like an Osyer Wand. Then cry'd, O pond'rous Spoil of Actor slain, And never yet by Turnus toss'd in vain,Line 150 Fail not this Day thy wonted Force: But go, Sent by this Hand, to pierce the Trojan Foe: Give me to tear his Corslet from his Breast, And from that Eunuch Head, to rend the Crest: Drag'd in the Dust, his frizled Hair to soil;Line 155 Hot from the vexing Ir'n, and smear'd with fragrant Oyl.

Thus while he raves, from his wide Nostrils flies A fiery Steam, and Sparkles from his Eyes. So fares the Bull in his lov'd Female's sight; Proudly he bellows, and preludes the fight:Line 160 He tries his goring Horns against a Tree; And meditates his absent Enemy: He pushes at the Winds, he digs the Strand With his black Hoofs, and spurns the yellow Sand.

Nor less the Trojan, in his Lemnian Arms,Line 165 To future Fight his Manly Courage warms: He whets his Fury, and with Joy prepares, To terminate at once the ling'ring Wars. To chear his Cheifs, and tender Son, relates What Heav'n had promis'd, and expounds the Fates.Line 170 Then to the Latian King he sends, to cease The Rage of Arms, and ratifies the Peace.

The Morn ensuing from the Mountain's height, Had scarcely spread the Skies with rosie Light; Th' Etherial Coursers bounding from the Sea,Line 175 From out their flaming Nostrils breath'd the Day: When now the Trojan and Rutulian Guard, In friendly Labour join'd, the List prepar'd. Beneath the Walls, they measure out the Space; Then sacred Altars rear, on sods of Grass;Line 180 Where, with Religious Rites, their common Gods they place. In purest white, the Priests their Heads attire, And living Waters bear, and holy Fire: And o're their Linnen Hoods, and shaded Hair, Long twisted Wreaths of sacred Vervain wear.Line 185

In Order issuing from the Town, appears The Latin Legion, arm'd with pointed Spears; And from the Fields, advancing on a Line, The Trojan and the Tuscan Forces join: Line 190

Their various Arms afford a pleasing Sight;Line 190 A peaceful Train they seem, in Peace prepar'd for Fight.

Betwixt the Ranks the proud Commanders ride, Glitt'ring with Gold, and Vests in Purple dy'd. Here Mnestheus Author of the Memmian Line, And there Messapus born of Seed Divine.Line 195 The Sign is giv'n, and round the listed Space, Each Man in order fills his proper Place. Reclining on their ample Shields, they stand; And fix their pointed Lances in the Sand. Now, studious of the sight, a num'rous ThrongLine 200 Of either Sex promiscuous, old and young, Swarm from the Town: By those who rest behind, The Gates and Walls, and Houses tops are lin'd.

Mean time the Queen of Heav'n beheld the sight, With Eyes unpleas'd, from Mount Albano's height:Line 205 (Since call'd Albano, by succeeding Fame, But then an empty Hill, without a Name.) She thence survey'd the Field, the Trojan Pow'rs, The Latian Squadrons, and Laurentine Tow'rs. Then thus the Goddess of the Skies bespake,Line 210 With Sighs and Tears, the Goddess of the Lake; King Turnus Sister, once a lovely Maid, E're to the Lust of lawless Jove betray'd: Compress'd by Force, but by the grateful God, Now made the Nais of the neighb'ring Flood.Line 215

O Nymph, the Pride of living Lakes, said she, O most renown'd, and most belov'd by me, Long hast thou known, nor need I to record The wanton sallies of my wand'ring Lord: Of ev'ry Latian fair, whom Jove mis-led,Line 220 To mount by Stealth my violated Bed, To thee alone I grudg'd not his Embrace; But gave a part of Heav'n, and an unenvy'd Place.

[illustration]

To y^e Hon^ble. Brigadier Edward Fitzpatrick

Now learn from me, thy near approaching Grief, Nor think my Wishes want to thy Relief.Line 225 While fortune favour'd, nor Heav'n's King deny'd, To lend my Succour to the Latian side, I sav'd thy Brother, and the sinking State: But now he struggles with unequal Fate; And goes with Gods averse, o'rematch'd in Might,Line 230 To meet inevitable Death in Fight: Nor must I break the Truce, nor can sustain the sight. Thou, if thou dar'st, thy present Aid supply; It well becomes a Sister's Care to try.

At this the lovely Nymph, with Grief oppress'd,Line 235 Thrice tore her Hair, and beat her comely Breast. To whom Saturnia thus; thy Tears are late; Haste, snatch him, if he can be snatch'd from Fate: New Tumults kindle, violate the Truce; Who knows what changeful Fortune may produce?Line 240 'Tis not a Crime t' attempt what I decree, Or if it were, discharge the Crime on me. She said, and, sailing on the winged Wind, Left the sad Nymph suspended in her Mind.

And now in Pomp the peaceful Kings appear:Line 245 Four Steeds the Chariot of Latinus bear: Twelve golden Beams around his Temples play, To mark his Lineage from the God of Day. Two snowy Coursers Turnus's Chariot yoke, And in his Hand two Massy Spears he shook:Line 250 Then issu'd from the Camp, in Arms Divine, Aeneas, Author of the Roman Line: And by his side Ascanius took his Place, The second Hope of Rome's Immortal Race. Adorn'd in white, a rev'rend Priest appears;Line 255 And Off'rings to the flaming Altars bears; A Porket, and a Lamb, that never suffer'd Shears.

Then, to the rising Sun he turns his Eyes, And strews the Beasts, design'd for Sacrifice, With Salt, and Meal: With like officious CareLine 260 He marks their Foreheads, and he clips their Hair. Betwixt their Horns the Purple Wine he sheds, With the same gen'rous Juice the Flame he feeds. Aeneas then unsheath'd his shining Sword, And thus with pious Pray'rs the Gods ador'd.Line 265

All-seeing Sun, and thou Ausonian Soil, For which I have sustain'd so long a Toil, Thou King of Heav'n, and thou the Queen of Air, (Propitious now, and reconcil'd by Pray'r,) Thou God of War, whose unresisted SwayLine 270 The Labours and Events of Arms obey; Ye living Fountains, and ye running Floods, All Pow'rs of Ocean, all Etherial Gods, Hear, and bear Record: if I fall in Field, Or Recreant in the Fight, to Turnus yield,Line 275 My Trojans shall encrease Evander's Town; Ascanius shall renounce th' Ausonian Crown: All Claims, all Questions of Debate shall cease; Nor he, nor they, with Force infringe the Peace. But if my juster Arms prevail in Fight,Line 280 As sure they shall, if I divine aright, My Trojans shall not o're th' Italians Reign; Both equal, both unconquer'd shall remain: Join'd in their Laws, their Lands, and their Abodes; I ask but Altars for my weary Gods:Line 285 The Care of those Religious Rites be mine; The Crown to King Latinus I resign: His be the Sov'raign Sway. Nor will I share His Pow'r in Peace, or his Command in War. For me, my Friends another Town shall frame,Line 290 And bless the rising Tow'rs, with fair Lavinia's Name.

Thus he. Then with erected Eyes and Hands, The Latian King before his Altar stands. By the same Heav'n, said he, and Earth, and Main, And all the Pow'rs, that all the three contain;Line 295 By Hell below, and by that upper God, Whose Thunder signs the Peace, who seals it with his Nod; So let Latona's double Offspring hear, And double fronted Janus, what I swear; I touch the sacred Altars, touch the Flames,Line 300 And all those Pow'rs attest, and all their Names: Whatever Chance befall on either Side, No term of time this Union shall divide: No Force, no Fortune, shall my Vows unbind, Or shake the stedfast Tenour of my Mind:Line 305 Not tho' the circling Seas shou'd break their Bound, O'reflow the Shores, or sap the solid Ground; Not tho' the Lamps of Heav'n their Spheres forsake, Hurl'd down, and hissing in the neather Lake: Ev'n as this Royal Scepter, (for he boreLine 310 A Scepter in his Hand) shall never more Shoot out in Branches, or renew the Birth; (An Orphan now, cut from the Mother Earth By the keen Axe, dishonour'd of its Hair, And cas'd in Brass, for Latian Kings to bear.)Line 315

When thus in publick view the Peace was ty'd, With solemn Vows, and sworn on either side, All dues perform'd which holy Rites require; The Victim Beasts are slain before the Fire: The trembling Entrails from their Bodies torn,Line 320 And to the fatten'd Flames in Chargers born.

Already the Rutulians deem'd their Man O'rematch'd in Arms, before the Fight began. First rising Fears are whisper'd thro' the Crowd; Then, gath'ring sound, they murmur more aloud.Line 325

Now side to side, they measure with their Eyes The Champions bulk, their Sinews, and their Sise: The nearer they approach, the more is known Th' apparent Disadvantage of their own. Turnus himself, appears in publick sight,Line 330 Conscious of Fate, desponding of the Fight. Slowly he moves; and at his Altar stands With eyes dejected, and with trembling hands: And while he mutters undistinguish'd Pray'rs, A livid deadness in his Cheeks appears.Line 335

With anxious Pleasure when Juturna view'd Th' increasing Fright of the mad Multitude, When their short Sighs, and thickning Sobs she heard, And found their ready Minds for Change prepar'd; Dissembling her immortal Form, she tookLine 340 Camertus Meen, his Habit, and his Look; A Chief of ancient Blood: in Arms well known Was his great Sire, and he, his greater Son. His Shape assum'd, amid the Ranks she ran, And humouring their first Motions, thus began.Line 345

For shame, Rutulians, can you bear the sight, Of one expos'd for all, in single Fight? Can we, before the Face of Heav'n, confess Our Courage colder, or our Numbers less? View all the Trojan Hoast, th' Arcadian Band,Line 350 And Tuscan Army; count 'em as they stand, Undaunted to the Battel, if we goe, Scarce ev'ry second Man will share a Foe. Turnus, 'tis true, in this unequal Strife Shall lose, with Honour, his devoted Life:Line 355 Or change it rather for immortal Fame, Succeeding to the Gods, from whence he came: But you, a servile, and inglorious Band, For Foreign Lords shall sow your Native Land: Line 360

Those fruitful Fields, your fighting Fathers gain'd,Line 360 Which have so long their lazy Sons sustain'd.

With Words like these, she carry'd her Design; A rising Murmur runs along the Line. Then ev'n the City Troops, and Latians, tir'd With tedious War, seem with new Souls inspir'd:Line 365 Their Champion's Fate with Pity they lament; And of the League, so lately sworn, repent.

Nor fails the Goddess to foment the Rage With lying Wonders, and a false Presage: But adds a Sign, which, present to their Eyes,Line 370 Inspires new Courage, and a glad Surprize. For, sudden, in the fiery Tracts above, Appears in Pomp th' Imperial Bird of Jove: A plump of Fowl he spies, that swim the Lakes; And o're their Heads his sounding Pinions shakes.Line 375 Then stooping on the fairest of the Train, In his strong Tallons truss'd a silver Swan. Th' Italians wonder at th' unusual sight; But while he lags, and labours in his flight, Behold the Dastard Fowl return anew;Line 380 And with united force the Foe pursue: Clam'rous around the Royal Hawk they fly; And thick'ning in a Cloud, o'reshade the Sky. They cuff, they scratch, they cross his airy Course; Nor can th' incumber'd Bird sustain their Force:Line 385 But vex'd, not vanquish'd, drops the pond'rous Prey; And, lighten'd of his Burthen, wings his Way.

Th' Ausonian Bands with Shouts salute the sight: Eager of Action, and demand the Fight. Then King Tolumnius, vers'd in Augur's Arts,Line 390 Cries out, and thus his boasted Skill imparts. At length 'tis granted, what I long desir'd; This, this is what my frequent Vows requir'd.

Ye Gods, I take your Omen, and obey; Advance, my Friends, and charge, I lead the Way.Line 395 These are the Foreign Foes, whose impious Band, Like that rapacious Bird, infest our Land: But soon, like him, they shall be forc'd to Sea By Strength united, and forego the Prey: Your timely Succour to your Country bring;Line 400 Haste to the Rescue; and redeem your King.

He said: And pressing onward, thro' the Crew, Poiz'd in his lifted Arm, his Lance he threw. The winged Weapon, whistling in the Wind, Came driving on; nor miss'd the Mark design'd.Line 405 At once the Cornel rattled in the Skies; At once tumultuous Shouts, and Clamours rise. Nine Brothers in a goodly Band there stood, Born of Arcadian mix'd with Tuscan Blood: Gylippus Sons: The fatal Jav'lin flew,Line 410 Aim'd at the midmost of the friendly Crew. A Passage thro' the jointed Arms it found, Just where the Belt was to the Body bound; And struck the gentle Youth, extended on the Ground. Then fir'd with pious Rage, the gen'rous TrainLine 415 Run madly forward, to revenge the slain. And some with eager haste their Jav'lins throw; And some, with Sword in hand, assault the Foe.

The wish'd Insult the Latine Troops embrace; And meet their Ardour in the middle Space.Line 420 The Trojans, Tuscans, and Arcadian Line, With equal Courage obviate their Design. Peace leaves the violated Fields; and Hate Both Armies urges to their mutual Fate. With impious Haste their Altars are o'return'd,Line 425 The Sacrifice half broil'd, and half unburn'd.

Thick Storms of Steel from either Army fly, And Clouds of clashing Darts obscure the Sky: Brands from the Fire, are missive Weapons made; With Chargers, Bowls, and all the Priestly Trade.Line 430 Latinus frighted, hastens from the Fray, And bears his unregarded Gods away. These on their Horses vault, those yoke the Car; The rest with Swords on high, run headlong to the War.

Messapus, eager to confound the Peace,Line 435 Spurr'd his hot Courser thro' the fighting Preace, At King Aulestes; by his Purple known A Tuscan Prince, and by his Regal Crown: And with a Shock encount'ring, bore him down. Backward he fell; and as his Fate design'd,Line 440 The Ruins of an Altar were behind: There pitching on his Shoulders, and his Head, Amid the scatt'ring Fires he lay supinely spread. The beamy Spear, descending from above, His Cuirass pierc'd, and thro' his Body drove.Line 445 Then, with a scornful Smile, the Victor cries; The Gods have found a fitter Sacrifice. Greedy of Spoils, th' Italians strip the dead Of his rich Armour; and uncrown his Head.

Priest Chorinaeus arm'd his better Hand,Line 450 From his own Altar, with a blazing Brand: And, as Ebusus with a thund'ring Pace Advanc'd to Battel, dash'd it on his Face: His bristly Beard shines out with sudden Fires, The crackling Crop a noisom scent expires.Line 455 Following the blow, he seiz'd his curling Crown With his left Hand; his other cast him down. The prostrate Body with his Knees he press'd; And plung'd his holy Ponyard in his Breast.

While Podalirius, with his Sword, pursu'dLine 460 The Shepherd Alsus thro' the flying Crowd, Swiftly he turns; and aims a deadly blow, Full on the Front of his unwary Foe. The broad Axe enters, with a crashing Sound, And cleaves the Chin, with one continu'd Wound:Line 465 Warm Blood, and mingled Brains, besmear his Arms around. An Iron Sleep his stupid Eyes oppress'd, And seal'd their heavy Lids in endless rest. But good Aeneas rush'd amid the Bands, Bare was his Head, and naked were his Hands,Line 470 In sign of Truce: Then thus he cries aloud, What sudden Rage, what new Desire of Blood Inflames your alter'd Minds? O Trojans cease From impious Arms, nor violate the Peace. By Human Sanctions, and by Laws Divine,Line 475 The Terms are all agreed, the War is mine. Dismiss your Fears, and let the Fight ensue; This Hand alone shall right the Gods and you: Our injur'd Altars, and their broken Vow, To this avenging Sword the faithless Turnus owe.Line 480

Thus while he spoke, unmindful of Defence, A winged Arrow struck the Pious Prince. But whether from some Human Hand it came, Or Hostile God, is left unknown by Fame: No Human Hand, or Hostile God was found,Line 485 To boast the Triumph of so base a Wound.

When Turnus saw the Trojan quit the Plain, His Chiefs dismay'd, his Troops a fainting Train: Th' unhop'd Event his heighten'd Soul inspires, At once his Arms and Coursers he requires.Line 490 Then, with a leap, his lofty Chariot gains, And with a ready hand assumes the Reins.

He drives impetuous, and where e're he goes, He leaves behind a Lane of slaughter'd Foes. These his Lance reaches, over those he rowlsLine 495 His rapid Car, and crushes out their Souls: In vain the vanquish'd fly; the Victor sends The dead Mens Weapons at their living Friends.

Thus on the Banks of Hebrus freezing Flood The God of Battel's in his angry Mood,Line 500 Clashing his Sword against his brazen Shield, Lets loose the Reins, and scours along the Field: Before the Wind his fiery Coursers fly, Groans the sad Earth, resounds the ratling Sky. Wrath, Terror, Treason, Tumult, and Despair,Line 505 Dire Faces, and deform'd, surround the Car; Friends of the God, and Followers of the War.

With Fury not unlike, nor less Disdain, Exulting Turnus flies along the Plain: His smoaking Horses, at their utmost Speed,Line 510 He lashes on; and urges o're the dead. Their Fetlocks run with Blood; and when they bound, The Gore, and gath'ring Dust, are dash'd around. Thamyris and Pholus, Masters of the War, He kill'd at hand, but Sthelenus afar:Line 515 From far the Sons of Imbracus he slew, Glaucus, and Lades, of the Lycian Crew: Both taught to fight on Foot, in Battel join'd; Or mount the Courser that outstrips the Wind.

Mean time Eumedes, vaunting in the Field,Line 520 New fir'd the Trojans, and their Foes repell'd. This Son of Dolon bore his Grandsire's Name; But emulated more his Father's Fame. His guileful Father, sent a nightly Spy, The Grecian Camp and Order to descry:Line 525

Hard Enterprise, and well he might require Achilles Carr, and Horses for his hire: But, met upon the Scout, th' Etolian Prince In Death bestow'd a juster Recompence.

Fierce Turnus view'd the Trojan from afar;Line 530 And lanch'd his Jav'lin from his lofty Carr: Then lightly leaping down pursu'd the Blow, And, pressing with his Foot, his prostrate Foe, Wrench'd from his feeble hold the shining Sword; And plung'd it in the Bosom of its Lord.Line 535 Possess, said he, the fruit of all thy Pains, And measure, at thy length, our Latian Plains. Thus are my Foes rewarded by my hand, Thus may they build their Town, and thus enjoy the Land.

Then Dares, Butes, Sybaris he slew,Line 540 Whom o're his Neck his flound'ring Courser threw. As when loud Boreas with his blust'ring Train, Stoops from above, incumbent on the Main; Where e're he flies, he drives the Rack before; And rowls the Billows on th' Aegean Shore:Line 545 So where resistless Turnus takes his Course, The scatter'd Squadrons bend before his force: His Crest of Horses Hair is blown behind, By adverse Air; and rustles in the Wind.

This, haughty Phegeus saw with high Disdain,Line 550 And as the Chariot rowl'd along the Plain, Light from the Ground he leapt, and seiz'd the Rein. Thus hung in Air, he still retain'd his hold; The Coursers frighted, and their Course control'd. The Lance of Turnus reach'd him as he hung,Line 555 And pierc'd his plated Arms; but pass'd along, And only raz'd the Skin: he turn'd, and held Against his threat'ning Foe his ample Shield:

[illustration]

To Thomas Hobbs D^r: in Phisic

En: 12. l 570.

Then call'd for Aid: but while he cry'd in vain, The Chariot bore him backward on the Plain.Line 560 He lies revers'd; the Victor King descends, And strikes so justly where his Helmet ends, He lops the Head. The Latian Fields are drunk With streams that issue from the bleeding Trunk.

While he triumphs, and while the Trojans yield,Line 565 The wounded Prince is forc'd to leave the Field: Strong Mnestheus, and Achates often try'd, And young Ascanius, weeping by his side, Conduct him to his Tent: Scarce can he rear His Limbs from Earth, supported on his Spear.Line 570 Resolv'd in Mind, regardless of the Smart, He tugs with both his Hands, and breaks the Dart. The Steel remains. No readier way he found To draw the Weapon, than t' inlarge the Wound. Eager of Fight, impatient of delay,Line 575 He begs; and his unwilling Friends obey.

Iapis was at hand to prove his Art, Whose blooming Youth so fir'd Apollo's Heart, That for his Love he proffer'd to bestow His tuneful Harp, and his unerring Bow.Line 580 The pious Youth, more studious how to save His aged Sire, now sinking to the Grave, Pr••ferr'd the pow'r of Plants, and silent Praise Of healing Arts, before Phoebeian Bays.

Prop'd on his Lance the pensive Heroe stood,Line 585 And heard, and saw unmov'd, the mourning Crowd. The fam'd Physician tucks his Robes around, With ready Hands, and hastens to the Wound. With gentle Touches he performs his part, This way and that, solliciting the Dart,Line 590 And exercises all his Heav'nly Art.

All softning Simples, known of Sov'raign Use, He presses out, and pours their noble Juice; These first infus'd, to lenifie the Pain, He tugs with Pincers, but he tugs in vain.Line 595 Then, to the Patron of his Art he pray'd; The Patron of his Art refus'd his Aid.

Mean time the War approaches to the Tents; Th' Allarm grows hotter, and the Noise augments: The driving Dust proclaims the Danger near,Line 600 And first their Friends, and then their Foes appear; Their Friends retreat, their Foes pursue the Rear. The Camp is fill'd with Terror and Affright, The hissing Shafts within the Trench alight: An undistinguish'd Noise ascends the Sky;Line 605 The Shouts of those who kill, and Groans of those who dye.

But now the Goddess Mother, mov'd with Grief, And pierc'd with Pity, hastens her Relief. A Branch of healing Dittany she brought; Which in the Cretan Fields with Care she sought:Line 610 Rough is the Stem, which woolly Leafs surround; The Leafs with Flow'rs, the Flow'rs with Purple crown'd: Well known to wounded Goats; a sure Relief To draw the pointed Steel, and ease the Grief. This Venus brings, in Clouds involv'd; and brewsLine 615 Th' extracted Liquor with Ambrosian Dews, And od'rous Panacee: Unseen she stands, Temp'ring the mixture with her Heav'nly Hands: And pours it in a Bowl, already crown'd With Juice of medc'nal herbs prepar'd to bathe the Wound.Line 620 The Leech, unknowing of superior Art, Which aids the Cure, with this foments the part; And in a Moment ceas'd the raging smart. Stanch'd is the Blood, and in the bottom stands: The Steel, but scarcely touch'd with tender Hands,Line 625

Moves up, and follows of its own Accord; And Health and Vigour are at once restor'd. Iapis first perceiv'd the closing Wound; And first the Footsteps of a God he found. Arms, Arms, he cries, the Sword and Shield prepare,Line 630 And send the willing Chief, renew'd to War. This is no Mortal Work, no Cure of mine, Nor Art's effect, but done by Hands Divine: Some God our General to the Battel fends; Some God preserves his Life for greater Ends.Line 635

The Heroe arms in haste: His hands infold His Thighs with Cuisses of refulgent Gold: Inflam'd to fight, and rushing to the Field, That Hand sustaining the Coelestial Shield, This gripes the Lance; and with such Vigour shakes,Line 640 That to the Rest the beamy Weapon quakes. Then, with a close Embrace he strain'd his Son; And kissing thro' his Helmet, thus begun. My Son, from my Example learn the War, In Camps to suffer, and in Fields to dare:Line 645 But happier Chance than mine attend thy Care. This Day my hand thy tender Age shall shield, And crown with Honours of the conquer'd Field: Thou, when thy riper Years shall send thee forth, To toils of War, be mindful of my Worth:Line 650 Assert thy birthright; and in Arms be known, For Hector's Nephew, and Aeneas's Son.

He said, and, striding, issu'd on the Plain; Anteus, and Mnestheus, and a num'rous Train Attend his Steps: The rest their Weapons take,Line 655 And crowding to the Field, the Camp forsake. A cloud of blinding Dust is rais'd around; Labours beneath their Feet the trembling ground.

Now Turnus, posted on a Hill, from far Beheld the progress of the moving War:Line 660 With him the Latins view'd the cover'd Plains; And the chill Blood ran backward in their Veins. Juturna saw th' advancing Troops appear; And heard the hostile Sound, and fled for Fear. Aeneas leads; and draws a sweeping Train,Line 665 Clos'd in their Ranks, and pouring on the Plain. As when a Whirlwind rushing to the Shore, From the mid Ocean, drives the Waves before: The painful Hind, with heavy Heart foresees, The flatted Fields, and slaughter of the Trees;Line 670 With like impetuous Rage the Prince appears, Before his doubled Front; nor less Destruction bears. And now both Armies shock, in open Field; Osyris is by strong Thymbraeus kill'd. Archetius, Ufens, Epulon, are slain;Line 675 (All fam'd in Arms, and of the Latian Train;) By Gyas, Mnestheus, and Achates Hand: The fatal Augur falls, by whofe command The Truce was broken, and whose Lance embru'd With Trojan Blood, th' unhappy Fight renew'd.Line 680 Loud Shouts and Clamours rend the liquid Sky; And o're the Field the frighted Latins fly. The Prince disdains the Dastards to pursue, Nor moves to meet in Arms the fighting few: Turnus alone, amid the dusky Plain,Line 685 He seeks, and to the Combat calls in vain. Juturna heard, and seiz'd with Mortal Fear, Forc'd from the Beam her Brother's Charioteer; Assumes his Shape, his Armour, and his Meen; And like Metiscus, in his Seat is seen.Line 690

As the black Swallow near the Palace plies; O're empty Courts, and under Arches flies;

Now hawks aloft, now skims along the Flood, To furnish her loquacious Nest with Food: So drives the rapid Goddess o're the Plains;Line 695 The smoaking Horses run with loosen'd Reins. She steers a various Course among the Foes; Now here, now there, her conqu'ring Brother shows: Now with a straight, now with a wheeling flight, She turns, and bends, but shuns the single Fight.Line 700 Aeneas, fir'd with Fury, breaks the Crowd, And seeks his Foe, and calls by name aloud: He runs within a narrower Ring, and tries To stop the Chariot, but the Chariot flies. If he but gain a glimps, Juturna fears,Line 705 And far away the Daunian Heroe bears.

What shou'd he do! nor Arts nor Arms avail; And various Cares in vain his Mind assail. The great Messapus thund'ring thro' the Field, In his left hand two pointed Jav'lins held;Line 710 Encountring on the Prince, one Dart he drew, And with unerring aim, and utmost Vigour threw. Aeneas saw it come, and stooping low Beneath his Buckler, shunn'd the threatning blow. The Weapon hiss'd above his Head, and toreLine 715 The waving Plume, which on his Helm he wore. Forc'd by this hostile Act, and fir'd with spight, That flying Turnus still declin'd the Fight; The Prince, whose Piety had long repell'd His inborn ardour, now invades the Field:Line 720 Invokes the Pow'rs of violated Peace, Their Rites, and injur'd Altars to redress: Then, to his Rage abandoning the Rein, With Blood and slaughter'd Bodies fills the Plain.

What God can tell, what Numbers can displayLine 725 The various Labours of that fatal Day!

What Chiefs, and Champions fell on either side, In Combat slain, or by what Deaths they dy'd? Whom Turnus, whom the Trojan Heroe kill'd: Who shar'd the Fame, and fortune of the Field?Line 730 Jove, cou'dst thou view, and not avert thy sight, Two jarring Nations join'd in cruel fight, Whom Leagues of lasting Love so shortly shall unite!

Aeneas first Rutulian Sucro found, Whose Valour made the Trojans quit their Ground:Line 735 Betwixt his Ribs the Jav'lin drove so just, It reach'd his Heart, nor needs a second Thrust. Now Turnus, at two blows, two Brethren slew; First from his Horse fierce Amycus he threw; Then leaping on the Ground, on Foot assail'dLine 740 Diores, and in equal Fight prevail'd. Their lifeless Trunks he leaves upon the place; Their Heads distilling Gore, his Chariot grace.

Three cold on Earth the Trojan Heroe threw; Whom without respite at one Charge he slew.Line 745 Cethegus, Tanais, Tagus, fell oppress'd, And sad Onythes, added to the rest; Of Theban Blood, whom Peridia bore.

Turnus, two Brothers from the Lycian Shore, And from Apollo's Fane to Battel sent,Line 750 O'rethrew, nor Phoebus cou'd their Fate prevent. Peaceful Menaetes after these he kill'd, Who long had shunn'd the Dangers of the Field: On Lerna's Lake a silent Life he led, And with his Nets and Angle earn'd his Bread.Line 755 Nor pompous Cares, nor Palaces he knew, But wisely from th' infectious World withdrew. Poor was his House; his Father's painful Hand Discharg'd his Rent, and plough'd another's Land.

As Flames among the lofty Woods are thrown,Line 760 On diff'rent sides, and both by Winds are blown, The Laurels crackle in the sputt'ring Fire; The frighted Silvans from their Shades retire: Or as two neighb'ring Torrents fall from high, Rapid they run; the foamy Waters fry:Line 765 They rowl to Sea with unresisted Force, And down the Rocks precipitate their Course: Not with less rage the Rival Heroes take Their diff'rent Ways; nor less Destruction make. With Spears afar, with Swords at hand they strike;Line 770 And zeal of Slaughter fires their Souls alike. Like them, their dauntless Men maintain the Field, And Hearts are pierc'd unknowing how to yield: They blow for blow return, and wound for wound; And heaps of Bodies raise the level Ground.Line 775

Murranus, boasting of his Blood, that springs From a long Royal Race of Latian Kings, Is by the Trojan from his Chariot thrown, Crush'd with the weight of an unweildy Stone: Betwixt the Wheels he fell; the Wheels that boreLine 780 His living Load, his dying Body tore. His starting Steeds, to shun the glitt'ring Sword, Paw down his trampled Limbs, forgetful of their Lord.

Fierce Hillus threaten'd high; and face to face Affronted Turnus in the middle space:Line 785 The Prince encounter'd him in full Carreer, And at his Temples aim'd his deadly Spear: So fatally the flying Weapon sped, That thro' his Brazen Helm it pierc'd his Head. Nor Cisseus coud'st thou scape from Turnus hand,Line 790 In vain the strongest of th' Arcadian Band: Nor to Cupentus cou'd his Gods afford, Availing Aid against th' Aenean Sword:

Which to his naked Heart pursu'd the Course: Nor could his plated Shield sustain the Force.Line 795

Iolas fell, whom not the Grecian Pow'rs, Nor great Subvertor of the Trojan Tow'rs, Were doom'd to kill, while Heav'n prolong'd his Date: But who can pass the Bounds prefix'd by Fate? In high Lyrnessus, and in Troy, he heldLine 800 Two Palaces, and was from each expell'd: Of all the mighty Man, the last Remains A little spot of Foreign Earth contains.

And now both Hosts their broken Troops unite, In equal Ranks, and mix in mortal Fight.Line 805 Seresthus, and undaunted Mnestheus join The Trojan, Tuscan, and Arcadian Line: Sea-born Messapus, with Atinas, heads The Latin Squadrons, and to Battel leads. They strike, they push, they throng the scanty space;Line 810 Resolv'd on Death, impatient of Disgrace; And where one falls, another fills his Place.

The Cyprian Goddess now inspires her Son To leave th' unfinish'd Fight, and storm the Town. For while he rowls his Eyes around the Plain,Line 815 In quest of Turnus, whom he seeks in vain, He views th' ungarded City from afar, In careless quiet, and secure of War: Occasion offers, and excites his Mind, To dare beyond the Task he first design'd.Line 820 Resolv'd, he calls his Chiefs: they leave the Fight; Attended thus, he takes a neighb'ring Height: The crowding Troops about their Gen'ral stand, All under Arms, and wait his high Command. Then thus the lofty Prince: Hear and obey,Line 825 Ye Trojan Bands, without the least delay.

Jove is with us, and what I have decreed Requires our utmost Vigour, and our Speed. Your instant Arms against the Town prepare; The source of Mischief, and the Seat of War.Line 830 This Day the Latian Tow'rs, that mate the Sky, Shall level with the Plain in Ashes lye: The People shall be Slaves; unless in time They kneel for Pardon, and repent their Crime. Twice have our Foes been vanquish'd on the Plain;Line 835 Then shall I wait till Turnus will be slain? Your Force against the perjur'd City bend: There it began, and there the War shall end. The Peace profan'd our rightful Arms requires: Cleanse the polluted Place with purging Fires.Line 840

He finish'd; and one Soul inspiring all, Form'd in a Wedge, the Foot approach the Wall. Without the Town, an unprovided Train Of gaping, gazing Citizens are slain. Some Firebrands, others scaling Ladders bear;Line 845 And those they toss aloft, and these they rear: The Flames now lanch'd, the feather'd Arrows fly, And Clouds of missive Arms obscure the Sky. Advancing to the Front, the Heroe stands, And stretching out to Heav'n his Pious Hands;Line 850 Attests the Gods, asserts his Innocence, Upbraids with breach of Faith th' Ausonian Prince: Declares the Royal Honour doubly stain'd, And twice the Rites of holy Peace profan'd.

Dissenting Clamours in the Town arise;Line 855 Each will be heard, and all at once advise. One part for Peace, and one for War contends: Some wou'd exclude their Foes, and some admit their Friends. The helpless King is hurry'd in the Throng; And what e're Tide prevails, is born along.Line 860

Thus when the Swain, within a hollow Rock, Invades the Bees, with suffocating Smoke, They run around, or labour on their Wings, Disus'd to flight; and shoot their sleepy Stings: To shun the bitter Fumes in vain they try;Line 865 Black Vapours, issuing from the Vent, involve the Sky.

But Fate, and envious Fortune, now prepare To plunge the Latins in the last despair. The Queen, who saw the Foes invade the Town; And brands on tops of burning Houses thrown:Line 870 Cast round her Eyes, distracted with her Fear; No Troops of Turnus in the Field appear. Once more she stares abroad, but still in vain: And then concludes the Royal Youth is slain. Mad with her Anguish, impotent to bearLine 875 The mighty Grief, she loaths the vital Air. She calls her self the Cause of all this Ill, And owns the dire Effects of her ungovern'd Will: She raves against the Gods, she beats her Breast, She tears with both her hands her Purple Vest.Line 880 Then round a Beam a running Noose she ty'd; And, fasten'd by the Neck, obscenely dy'd.

Soon as the fatal News by Fame was blown, And to her Dames, and to her Daughter known; The sad Lavinia rends her yellow Hair,Line 885 And rosie Cheeks; the rest her Sorrow share: With Shrieks the Palace rings, and Madness of Despair. The spreading Rumor fills the Publick Place; Confusion, Fear, Distraction, and Disgrace, And silent shame, are seen in ev'ry Face.Line 890 Latinus tears his Garments as he goes, Both for his publick, and his private Woes: With Filth his venerable Beard besmears, And sordid Dust deforms his Silver Hairs. Line 895

And much he blames the softness of his Mind,Line 895 Obnoxious to the Charms of Womankind, And soon seduc'd to change, what he so well design'd: To break the solemn League so long desir'd, Nor finish what his Fates, and those of Troy requir'd.

Now Turnus rowls aloof o're empty Plains,Line 900 And here and there some stragling Foes he gleans. His flying Coursers please him less and less, Asham'd of easie Fight, and cheap Success. Thus half contented, anxious in his Mind, The distant Cries come driving in the Wind:Line 905 Shouts from the Walls, but Shouts in Murmurs drown'd; A jarring mixture, and a boding sound. Alas, said he, what mean these dismal Cries, What doleful Clamours from the Town arise? Confus'd he stops, and backward pulls the Reins:Line 910 She, who the Driver's Office now sustains, Replies; Neglect, my Lord, these new Alarms; Here fight, and urge the Fortune of your Arms: There want not others to defend the Wall: If by your Rival's Hand th' Italians fall,Line 915 So shall your fatal Sword his Friends oppress, In Honour equal, equal in Success.

To this, the Prince; O Sister, (for I knew The Peace infring'd, proceeded first from you,) I knew you, when you mingled first in Fight,Line 920 And now in vain you wou'd deceive my Sight: Why, Goddess, this unprofitable Care? Who sent you down from Heav'n, involv'd in Air, Your share of Mortal Sorrows to sustain, And see your Brother bleeding on the Plain?Line 925 For, to what Pow'r can Turnus have recourse, Or how resist his Fates prevailing force!

These Eyes beheld Murranus bite the Ground, Mighty the Man, and mighty Was the Wound. I heard my dearest Friend, with dying Breath,Line 930 My Name invoking to revenge his Death: Brave Ufens fell with Honour on the Place; To shun the shameful sight of my disgrace. On Earth supine, a Manly Corps he lies; His Vest and Armour are the Victor's Prize.Line 935 Then, shall I see Laurentum in a flame, Which only wanted to compleat my shame? How will the Latins hoot their Champion's flight; How Drances will be pleas'd, and point them to the sight! Is Death so hard to bear? Ye Gods below,Line 940 (Since those above so small Compassion show,) Receive a Soul unsully'd yet with shame, Which not belies my great Forefather's Name.

He said: And while he spoke, with flying speed, Came Sages urging on his foamy Steed;Line 945 Fix'd on his wounded Face a Shaft he bore, And seeking Turnus sent his Voice before: Turnus, on you, on you alone depends Our last Relief; compassionate your Friends. Like Lightning, fierce Aeneas, rowling on,Line 950 With Arms invests, with Flames invades the Town: The Brands are toss'd on high; the Winds conspire To drive along the Deluge of the Fire: All Eyes are fix'd on you; your Foes rejoice; Ev'n the King staggers, and suspends his Choice:Line 955 Doubts to deliver, or defend the Town; Whom to reject, or whom to call his Son. The Queen, on whom your utmost hopes were plac'd, Her self suborning Death, has breath'd her last. 'Tis true, Messapus, fearless of his Fate,Line 960 With fierce Atinas Aid, defends the Gate:

On ev'ry side surrounded by the Foe; The more they kill, the greater Numbers grow; An Iron Harvest mounts, and still remains to mow. You, far aloof from your forsaken Bands,Line 965 Your rowling Chariot drive o're empty Sands.

Stupid he sate, his Eyes on Earth declin'd, And various Cares revolving in his Mind: Rage boiling from the bottom of his Breast, And Sorrow mix'd with Shame, his Soul oppress'd:Line 970 And conscious Worth lay lab'ring in his Thought; And Love by Jealousie to Madness wrought. By slow degrees his Reason drove away The Mists of Passion, and resum'd her Sway. Then, rising on his Car, he turn'd his Look;Line 975 And saw the Town involv'd in Fire and Smoke. A wooden Tow'r with Flames already blaz'd, Which his own Hands on Beams and Rafters rais'd: And Bridges laid above to join the Space; And Wheels below to rowl from place to place.Line 980 Sister, the Fates have vanquish'd: Let us go The way which Heav'n and my hard Fortune show. The Fight is fix'd: Nor shall the branded Name Of a base Coward blot your Brother's Fame. Death is my choice; but suffer me to tryLine 985 My Force, and vent my Rage before I dye. He said, and leaping down without delay, Thro Crowds of scatter'd Foes he free'd his way. Striding he pass'd, impetuous as the Wind, And left the grieving Goddess far behind.Line 990 As when a Fragment, from a Mountain torn By raging Tempests, or by Torrents born, Or sapp'd by time, or loosen'd from the Roots, Prone thro' the Void the Rocky Ruine shoots, Line 995

Rowling from Crag to Crag, from Steep to Steep;Line 995 Down sink, at once the Shepherds and their Sheep, Involv'd alike, they rush to neather Ground, Stun'd with the shock they fall, and stun'd from Earth rebound: So Turnus, hasting headlong to the Town, Should'ring and shoving, bore the Squadrons down.Line 1000 Still pressing onward, to the Walls he drew, Where Shafts, and Spears, and Darts promiscuous flew; And sanguine Streams the slipp'ry Ground embrew. First stretching out his Arm, in sign of Peace, He cries aloud, to make the Combat cease:Line 1005 Rutulians hold, and Latin Troops retire; The Fight is mine, and me the Gods require. Tis just that I shou'd vindicate alone The broken Truce, or for the Breach atone. This Day shall free from Wars th' Ausonian State;Line 1010 Or finish my Misfortunes in my Fate.

Both Armies from their bloody Work desist: And bearing backward, form a spacious List. The Trojan Heroe who receiv'd from Fame The welcome Sound, and heard the Champion's Name,Line 1015 Soon leaves the taken Works, and mounted Walls, Greedy of War, where greater Glory calls. He springs to Fight, exulting in his Force; His jointed Armour rattles in the Course. Like Eryx, or like Athos, great he shows,Line 1020 Or Father Apennine, when white with Snows, His Head Divine, obscure in Clouds he hides: And shakes the sounding Forest on his sides.

The Nations over-aw'd, surcease the Fight, Immoveable their Bodies, fix'd their sight:Line 1025 Ev'n Death stands still; nor from above they throw Their Darts, nor drive their batt'ring Rams below.

In silent Order either Army stands; And drop their Swords, unknowing, from their Hands. Th' Ausonian King beholds, with wond'ring sight,Line 1030 Two mighty Champions match'd in single Fight: Born under Climes remote; and brought by Fate, With Swords to try their Titles to the State.

Now in clos'd Field, each other from afar They view; and rushing on, begin the War.Line 1035 They launch their Spears, then hand to hand they meet; The trembling Soil resounds beneath their Feet: Their Bucklers clash; thick blows descend from high, And flakes of Fire from their hard Helmets fly. Courage conspires with Chance; and both ingageLine 1040 With equal Fortune, and with mutual Rage.

As when two Bulls for their fair Female fight, In Sila's Shades, or on Taburnus height; With Horns adverse they meet: the Keeper flies; Mute stands the Herd, the Heifars rowl their Eyes;Line 1045 And wait th' Event; which Victor they shall bear, And who shall be the Lord, to rule the lusty Year: With rage of Love the jealous Rivals burn, And Push for Push, and Wound for Wound return: Their Dewlaps gor'd, their sides are lav'd in Blood;Line 1050 Loud Cries and roaring Sounds rebellow thro' the Wood: Such was the Combat in the listed Ground; So clash their Swords and so their Shields resound.

Jove sets the Beam; in either Scale he lays The Champions Fate, and each exactly weighs.Line 1055 On this side Life, and lucky Chance ascends: Loaded with Death, that other Scale descends. Rais'd on the Stretch, young Turnus aims a blow, Full on the Helm of his unguarded Foe: Shrill Shouts and Clamours ring on either side;Line 1060 As Hopes and Fears their panting Hearts divide.

But all in pieces flies the Traytor Sword, And, in the middle Stroke deserts his Lord. Now 'tis but Death, or Flight: disarm'd he flies, When in his Hand, an unknown Hilt he spies.Line 1065 Fame says that Turnus, when his Steeds he join'd, Hurrying to War, disorder'd in his Mind, Snatch'd the first Weapon, which his haste cou'd find. 'Twas not the fated Sword his Father bore; But that his Charioteer Metiscus wore.Line 1070 This, while the Trojans fled, the Toughness held; But vain against the great Vulcanian Shield, The mortal-temper'd Steel deceiv'd his Hand: The shiver'd fragments shone amid the Sand.

Surpris'd with fear, he fled along the Field;Line 1075 And now forthright, and now in Orbits wheel'd. For here the Trojan Troops the List surround; And there the Pass is clos'd with Pools and marshy Ground. Aeneas hastens, tho' with heavier Pace, His Wound so newly knit, retards the Chase:Line 1080 And oft his trembling Knees their Aid refuse, Yet pressing foot by foot his Foe pursues.

Thus, when a fearful Stag is clos'd around With Crimson Toils, or in a River found; High on the Bank the deep-mouth'd Hound appears;Line 1085 Still opening, following still, where e're he steers: The persecuted Creature, to, and fro, Turns here and there, to scape his Ʋmbrian Foe: Steep is th' Ascent; and if he gains the Land, The Purple Death is pitch'd along the Strand:Line 1090 His eager Foe determin'd to the Chace, Stretch'd at his length gains Ground at ev'ry Pace: Now to his beamy Head he makes his way, And now he holds, or thinks he holds his Prey:

[illustration]

To the Right Hon^ble: Francis North Baron of Guilford

Aen: 12. L 1120.

Just at the pinch the Stag springs out with fear,Line 1095 He bites the Wind, and fills his sounding Jaws with Air. The Rocks, the Lakes, the Meadows ring with Cries; The mortal Tumult mounts, and thunders in the Skies.

Thus flies the Daunian Prince: and, flying, blames His tardy Troops; and calling by their Names,Line 1100 Demands his trusty Sword. The Trojan threats The Realm with Ruin, and their ancient Seats To lay in Ashes, if they dare supply With Arms or Aid, his vanquish'd Enemy: Thus menacing, he still pursues the Course,Line 1105 With Vigour, tho' diminish'd of his Force. Ten times, already, round the listed place, One Chief had fled, and t'other giv'n the Chace: No trivial Prize is play'd; for on the Life Or Death of Turnus, now depends the Strife.Line 1110

Within the space, an Olive Tree had stood, A sacred Shade, a venerable Wood, For Vows to Faunus paid, the Latins Guardian God. Here hung the Vests, and Tablets were ingrav'd, Of sinking Mariners, from Shipwrack sav'd.Line 1115 With heedless Hands the Trojans fell'd the Tree, To make the Ground inclos'd for Combat free. Deep in the Root, whether by Fate, or Chance, Or erring haste, the Trojan drove his Lance: Then stoop'd, and tug'd with Force immense to freeLine 1120 Th' incumber'd Spear from the tenacious Tree: That whom his fainting Limbs pursu'd in vain, His flying Weapon might from far attain.

Confus'd with Fear, bereft of Human Aid, Then Turnus to the Gods, and first to Faunus pray'd.Line 1225 O Faunus pity, and thou Mother Earth, Where I thy foster Son receiv'd my Birth,

Hold fast the Steel; if my Religious Hand Your Plant has honour'd, which your Foes profan'd; Propitious hear my pious Pray'r! He said,Line 1130 Nor with successless Vows invok'd their Aid. Th' incumbent Heroe, wrench'd, and pull'd, and strain'd; But still the stubborn Earth the Steel detain'd. Juturna took her time; and while in vain He strove, assum'd Metiscus Form again:Line 1135 And, in that imitated Shape, restor'd To the despairing Prince, his Daunian Sword. The Queen of Love, who, with Disdain and Grief, Saw the bold Nymph afford this prompt Relief; T' assert her Off-spring, with a greater Deed,Line 1140 From the tough Root the ling'ring Weapon freed.

Once more erect, the Rival Chiefs advance; One trusts the Sword, and one the pointed Lance: And both resolv'd alike, to try their fatal Chance.

Mean time Imperial Jove to Juno spoke,Line 1145 Who from a shining Cloud beheld the shock; What new Arrest, O Queen of Heav'n, is sent To stop the Fates now lab'ring in th' Event. What farther hopes are left thee to pursue Divine Aeneas, (and thou know'st it too,)Line 1150 Fore-doom'd to these Coelestial Seats is due? What more Attempts for Turnus can be made, That thus thou ling'rest in this lonely Shade! Is it becoming of the due Respect, And awful Honour of a God Elect,Line 1155 A Wound unworthy of our State to feel; Patient of Human Hands, and earthly Steel? Or seems it Just, the Sister shou'd restore, A second Sword, when one was lost before; And arm a conquer'd Wretch, against his Conqueror?Line 1160

For what without thy knowledge and avow, Nay more, thy Dictate, durst Juturna do? At last, in deference to my Love, forbear To lodge within thy Soul this anxious Care: Reclin'd upon my Breast, thy Grief unload;Line 1165 Who shou'd relieve the Goddess, but the God? Now, all things to their utmost Issue tend; Push'd by the Fates to their appointed End: While leave was giv'n thee, and a lawful Hour For Vengeance, Wrath, and unresisted Pow'r:Line 1170 Toss'd on the Seas thou cou'd'st thy Foes distress, And driv'n ashore, with Hostile Arms oppress: Deform the Royal House; and from the side Of the Just Bridegroom, tear the plighted Bride:

Now cease at my Command. The Thund'rer said:Line 1175 And with dejected Eyes this Answer Juno made. Because your dread Decree too well I knew; From Turnus, and from Earth unwilling I withdrew. Else shou'd you not behold me here alone, Involv'd in empty Clouds, my Friends bemoan:Line 1180 But girt with vengeful Flames, in open sight, Engag'd against my Foes in Mortal Fight. 'Tis true Juturna mingled in the Strife By my Command, to save her Brother's Life; At least to try: But by the Stygian Lake,Line 1185 (The most Religious Oath the Gods can take,) With this restriction, not to bend the Bow, Or toss the Spear, or trembling Dart to throw. And now resign'd to your Superior Might, And tir'd with fruitless Toils, I loath the Fight.Line 1190 This let me beg, (and this no Fates withstand) Both for my self, and for your Fathers Land, That when the Nuptial Bed shall bind the Peace; (Which I, since you ordain, consent to bless,) Line 1195

The Laws of either Nation be the same;Line 1195 But let the Latins still retain their Name: Speak the same Language which they spoke before; Wear the same Habits, which their Grandsires wore: Call them not Trojans: Perish the Renown, And Name of Troy, with that detested Town.Line 1200 Latium be Latium still; let Alba reign, And Rome's immortal Majesty remain.

Then thus the Founder of Mankind replies: (Unruffled was his Front, serene his Eyes,) Can Saturn's Issue, and Heav'ns other Heir,Line 1205 Such endless Anger in her Bosom bear? Be Mistress, and your full Desires obtain: But quench the Choler you foment in vain. From ancient Blood th' Ausonian People sprung, Shall keep their Name, their Habit, and their Tongue.Line 1210 The Trojans to their Customs shall be ty'd, I will, my self, their common Rites provide; The Natives shall command, the Foreigners subside. All shall be Latium; Troy without a Name: And her lost Sons forget from whence they came.Line 1215 From Blood so mix'd, a pious Race shall flow, Equal to Gods, excelling all below. No Nation more Respect to you shall pay, Or greater Off'rings on your Altars lay. Juno consents, well pleas'd that her DesiresLine 1220 Had found Success, and from the Cloud retires.

The Peace thus made, the Thund'rer next prepares To force the wat'ry Goddess from the Wars. Deep in the dismal Regions, void of Light, Three Daughters at a Birth were born to Night:Line 1225 These their brown Mother, brooding on her Care, Indu'd with windy Wings to flit in Air: With Serpents girt alike; and crown'd with hissing Hair.

In Heav'n the Dirae call'd, and still at hand, Before the Throne of angry Jove they stand.Line 1230 His Ministers of Wrath; and ready still The Minds of Mortal Men with Fears to fill: When e're the moody Sire, to wreak his Hate On Realms, or Towns deserving of their Fate, Hurls down Diseases, Death, and deadly Care,Line 1235 And terrifies the guilty World with War. One Sister Plague of these from Heav'n he sent, To fright Juturna with a dire Portent. The Pest comes whirling down: by far more slow Springs the swift Arrow from the Parthian Bow,Line 1240 Or Cydon Eugh; when traversing the Skies, And drench'd in pois'nous Juice, the sure Destruction flies. With such a sudden, and unseen a flight, Shot thro' the Clouds the Daughter of the Night. Soon as the Field inclos'd she had in view,Line 1245 And from afar her destin'd Quarry knew: Contracted, to the boding Bird she turns, Which haunts the ruin'd Piles, and hallow'd Urns; And beats about the Tombs with nightly Wings; Where Songs obsence on Sepulchres she sings.Line 1250 Thus lessen'd in her Form, with frightful Cries, The Fury round unhappy Turnus flies, Flaps on his Shield, and flutters o're his Eyes.

A lazy Chilness crept along his Blood, Choak'd was his Voice, his Hair with Horror stood.Line 1255 Juturna from afar beheld her fly, And knew th' ill Omen, by her screaming Cry, And stridour of her Wings. Amaz'd with Fear, Her comely Breast she beat, and rent her flowing Hair. Ah me, she cries, in this unequal Strife,Line 1260 What can thy Sister more to save thy Life!

Weak as I am, can I, alas, contend In Arms, with that inexorable Fiend! Now, now, I quit the Field! forbear to fright My tender Soul, ye baleful Birds of Night!Line 1265 The lashing of your Wings I know too well: The sounding Flight, and Fun'ral Screams of Hell! These are the Gifts you bring from haughty Jove, The worthy Recompence of ravish'd Love! Did he for this exempt my Life from Fate?Line 1270 O hard Conditions of Immortal State! Tho' born to Death, not priviledg'd to dye, But forc'd to bear impos'd Eternity! Take back your envious Bribes, and let me go Companion to my Brother's Ghost below!Line 1275 The Joys are vanish'd: Nothing now remains, Of Life Immortal, but Immortal Pains. What Earth will open her devouring Womb, To rest a weary Goddess in the Tomb! She drew a length of Sighs; nor more she said;Line 1280 But in her Azure Mantle wrap'd her Head: Then plung'd into her Stream, with deep Despair, And her last Sobs came bubling up in Air.

Now stern Aeneas waves his weighty Spear Against his Foe, and thus upbraids his Fear,Line 1285 What farther Subterfuge can Turnus find; What empty Hopes are harbour'd in his Mind? 'Tis not thy Swiftness can secure thy Flight: Not with their Feet, but Hands, the Valiant fight. Vary thy Shape in thousand Forms, and dareLine 1290 What Skill and Courage can attempt in War: Wish for the Wings of Winds, to mount the Sky; Or hid, within the hollow Earth to lye. The Champion shook his Head; and made this short reply. Line 1295

No threats of thine, my manly Mind can move:Line 1295 Tis Hostile Heav'n I dread; and Partial Jove. He, said no more: but with a Sigh, repress'd The mighty Sorrow, in his swelling Breast. Then, as he rowld his troubled Eyes around, An Antique Stone he saw: the Common BoundLine 1300 Of Neighb'ring Fields; and Barrier of the Ground: So vast, that Twelve strong Men of modern Days, Th' enormous weight from Earth cou'd hardly raise. He heav'd it at a Lift: and poiz'd on high, Ran stagg'ring on, against his Enemy.Line 1035 But so disorder'd, that he scarcely knew His Way: or what unwieldy weight he threw. His knocking Knees are bent beneath the Load: And shiv'ring Cold congeals his vital Blood. The Stone drops from his arms: and falling short,Line 1305 For want of Vigour, mocks his vain Effort. And as, when heavy Sleep has clos'd the sight, The sickly Fancy labours in the Night: We seem to run; and destitute of Force Our sinking Limbs forsake us in the Course:Line 1310 In vain we heave for Breath; in vain we cry: The Nerves unbrac'd, their usual Strength deny; And, on the Tongue the falt'ring Accents dye: So Turnus far'd: what ever means he try'd All force of Arms, and points of Art employ'd,Line 1320 The Fury flew athwart; and made th' Endeavour void.

A thousand various Thoughts his Soul confound: He star'd about; nor Aid nor Issue found: His own Men stop the Pass; and his own Walls surround. Once more he pauses; and looks out again:Line 1325 And seeks the Goddess Charioteer in vain. Trembling he views the Thund'ring Chief advance: And brandishing aloft the deadly Lance:

Amaz'd he cow'rs beneath his conqu'ring Foe, Forgets to ward; and waits the coming Blow.Line 1330 Astonish'd while he stands, and fix'd with Fear, Aim'd at his Shield he sees th' impending Spear.

The Heroe measur'd first, with narrow view, The destin'd Mark: And rising as he threw, With its full swing the fatal Weapon flew.Line 1335 Not with less Rage the rattling Thunder falls; Or Stones from batt'ring Engins break the Walls: Swift as a Whirlwind, from an Arm so strong, The Lance drove on; and bore the Death along. Nought cou'd his sev'n-fold Shield the Prince avail,Line 1340 Nor ought beneath his Arms the Coat of Mail; It pierc'd thro' all; and with a grizly Wound, Transfix'd his Thigh, and doubled him to Ground. With Groans the Latins rend the vaulted Sky: Woods, Hills, and Valleys, to the Voice reply.Line 1345

Now low on Earth the lofty Chief is laid; With Eyes cast upward, and with Arms display'd; And Recreant thus to the proud Victor pray'd. I know my Death deserv'd, nor hope to live: Use what the Gods, and thy good Fortune give.Line 1350

Yet think; oh think, if Mercy may be shown, (Thou hadst a Father once; and hast a Son:) Pity my Sire, now sinking to the Grave; And for Anchises sake, old Daunus save! Or, if thy vow'd Revenge pursue my Death;Line 1355 Give to my Friends my Body void of Breath! The Latian Chiefs have seen me beg my Life; Thine is the Conquest, thine the Royal Wife: Against a yielded Man, 'tis mean ignoble Strife.

In deep Suspence the Trojan seem'd to stand;Line 1360 And just prepar'd to strike repress'd his Hand.

[illustration]

To his Grace James Duke of Ormond Chancellor of the Ʋniversitys of Oxford and Dublin Knight of the most Noble Order of the Garter &c:

Aen: 12. L. 1360.

He rowl'd his Eyes, and ev'ry Moment felt His manly Soul with more Compassion melt. When, casting down a casual Glance, he spy'd The Golden Belt that glitter'd on his side:Line 1365 The fatal Spoils which haughty Turnus tore From dying Pallas, and in Triumph wore. Then rowz'd anew to Wrath, he loudly cries, (Flames, while he spoke, came flashing from his Eyes:) Traytor, dost thou, dost thou to Grace pretend,Line 1370 Clad, as thou art, in Trophees of my Friend? To his sad Soul a grateful Off'ring go; 'Tis Pallas, Pallas gives this deadly Blow. He rais'd his Arm aloft; and at the Word, Deep in his Bosom drove the shining Sword.Line 1375 The streaming Blood distain'd his Arms around: And the disdainful Soul came rushing thro' the Wound.

FINIS.

Notes

• * 1.1

  This whole line is taken from Sir John Derhan.