University of Virginia Library

Ode XIII. To the Fountain Bandusia.

Bandusia, that dost far surpass,
The shining Face of polish'd Glass,
To Thee, the Goblet, crown'd with Flowers,
The rich Libation justly pours;

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A Goat, whose Horns begin to spread,
And bending arm his swelling Head,
Whose Bosom glows with young Desires,
Which War or kindling Love inspires,
Now meditates his Blow in vain,—
His Blood shall thy fair Fountain stain.
When the fierce Dog-Star's fervid Ray
Flames forth, and sets on fire the Day,
You a refreshing Coolness yield
To vagrant Flocks, that range the Field,
Or to the Labour-wearied Team
Pour forth the Freshness of thy Stream.
Soon shalt Thou flow a noble Spring,
While in immortal Verse I sing
The Trees, which spread the Rocks around,
From whence thy pratling Waters bound.