The Odes and Epodon of Horace, In Five Books :: :: University of Virginia Library

Who o're his Neck sees hung drawn Sword,
Not best Sicilian food o'th' board
Can force sweet Relish there, or please;
Birds, Citherus chant no Ease.

Nor lull to rest: soft Sleep disdains
Not meanest Roofs of country Swains,
Shaded banks, nor Tempe Grove
Where Cephyrus doth rove.

Who seeks but just enough nor's vext
With Seas inchafed rage, perplext
Through Arcturus setting Star,
Kids rising, whence storms are:

Nor Vineyards Hail, of grapes bereav'd,
Nor lying Ground for Crop deceiv'd;
Fruits of scorching Stars, much rain,
Hard Winters though complain.

Fish feel their Seas abridg'd and scanted,
Such monstrous Piles i'th' deep implanted;
Whither rubbish stones are brought
By Tasker, workmen oft,

Proud Lord himself: but threats and Fear
That Lord attend climb wheresoe're:
Black fac'd Care his Ship bestrides;
Behind on's Courser rides.

But if sad thoughts nor Phrygian stone
Bright Purple like the Stars (least groan)
Can ease; nor Falern choicest Vine,
Persian unguents fine;

Why should I Porch of envi'd height
With Pillars build, new-fashion'd State?
Why change my Sabine Vale and Home
For Wealth more troublesome?

To his FRIENDS. Ode 2.

Youths should be bred up from their tender years to hardship, Warlike life and painfulness.

Hardship to bear, Friends, let the lusty Youth
Through practis'd Warfare learn, that sharper skill;
Parthians vex well hors'd, with smooth
Bright-pointed Spear made dreadful still:

And spend his Life abroad couch'd under Sky,
In dangerous course; that Mother o'th' young King
(War made for Virgin, marriage nigh)
From walls beholding him, heart-sting,

Could sigh; Ay me! let not fair princely Spouse
(Rude 'mongst arm'd Bands) ore desperately provoke
The Lyon's paw, that Anger rouze,
Which slaughters all with deadly stroke.

Sweet, comely 'tis for Countries good to Dye,
Since Death pursues the flying Man as fast;
Hams of that faint-hearted fry
Nought spares, nor fearful Backs, at last.

True Virtue, worth, not knowing base Retreat,
With pure untainted Honours shineth fair;
Nor takes those Axes up (power great)
Lays down for vulgar-breathed Ayr.

Virtue, which Heaven unlocks to th' Nobler Souls,
Immortal rank, strives through incumbred ways;
Pop'lar croud but scorns, controuls
Like dirty Earth, and wings doth raise.

Yea safe Reward has cautious Silence try'd;
Who mystick CERES hallow'd things o're free
Divulge, nor shall imbarked glide,
Nor lodg beneath same Roof with me.

That Father of the Day, neglected when,
Hath th' honest scourg'd with those incestuous oft;
But near foregoing Impious men
Vengeance (though Lame) doth leave uncaught.

Ode III.

The virtuous Man fears nothing: Juno's Oration of the fall of Troy, and Roman Empire rising from it.

The just liv'd Man, grown firm unchanged still,
Nor People's hear (when lawless Acts doth will)
Ought can shake his solid Mind;
Nor urgent Tyrant's look, southwind,

That blustring Lord o'th' restless Adrian Main;
Nor JOVE'S great hand when Thunder tears the Plain;
Though the Worlds crack'd frame should fall,
That Ruine strike undaunted shall.

Trusting this vertuous art, Pollux admir'd,
And Hercules to th' Starry Tow'rs aspir'd;
Between which pair AUGUSTUS grac'd,
With rosie Lip doth Nectar tast.

Tigers this way, deserving BACCHUS, thee
Transfer'd to Heav'n, whose necks (ungovern'd, free)
Bare the Yoak: Romulus gone,
By Mars his Steeds scap'd Acheron.

Which JUNO mov'd, as grateful thing, with joy;
To th' Councel of Gods thus spoke: Troy, pompous Troy,
Fatal Judge unchast, unwise,
And forrain Woman brought for Prize

Convert to Dust; from th' time Laomedon
Broke promise with those Gods; condemned Town
That with its Captain false by me,
Minerva prov'd; for vengeance free.

Now neither shines that Guest admir'd to th' fair,
Spartan Adulteress; nor strength though rare
Hector thought, strong Grecian Bands
Sunk Priam's perjur'd House withstands.

Which War, fomented by our fierce Desires,
Hath found a Close; thus done my angry fire;
Loathed Grandchild ROMULUS,
Whom Trojan Priestess bare to us,

To MARS my Son his Sire I leave, inclin'd,
That he shall drink (for our bright Seats design'd)
Nectar-juice; place firmly hold,
'Mongst number of the Gods inroll'd.

What time that long and mighty Sea doth rage
'Twixt Troy and Rome, let Trojans blest each Age
(Banish'd though) rule every where;
So Priam, Paris Tombs may bear.

Insulting Heards and Beasts those Vales command,
Lodg close their Cubs, secure; let shining stand
The Capitol; fierce Rome as head
Give Medians laws, in triumph led.

Name, far most horrid grown, let this extend
To th' utmost Coasts, where midland-sea doth rend
Europe from burnt Africk shore;
What fields swoln Nyle doth wander o're.

Rome stronger term'd, since rather can despise
Earth-bury'd Gold (whilst dark concealed lies)
Then forc'd for humane use to bring,
With hands that grasp each sacred thing.

What bound soere o'th' World, South, Northern Pole
Let Rome make feel her Arms, bent to controul;
What way the Sun with fires doth rave,
Or Clouds and Frosts their dwellings have.

But conquering Fates be thus by me divin'd
To th' Roman Troops, if over-pious, kind
(Too proudly swell'd) they don't to view
Troy's antient Cynder-tow'rs renew:

Troy born again, with dismal Omen thus
Reviv'd, shall prove again destroy'd by us;
Led by me Triumphant Hoast,
Who as JOVE'S Wife, and Sister boast.

Should Walls of brass, strong PHÆBUS Author found,
Thrice rise by turns, thrice should those beat the Ground
By Greeks and Spouses pris'ners led
Thrice mourn for Husbands, Children dead.

But solemn Thinge scarce sportive Harp do fit:
Muse, whither run'st? chant not with bouldest Wit
High Parleys of the Gods, nor wrong
Great things through small-composed Song.

Ode IV.

The Poet affirms, that he was freed from many Dangers through the help of the Muses; and that those had been unhappy who have opposed the Gods.

Descend, CALLIOPE, from Sky,
Arts Queen with Pipe's long Melody;
Or if proves clear-tuned voice,
Cythern, PHÆBUS Harp thy choice.

Hear you? or doth some Frenzy's play
Delude? methinks I hear, and stray
Through those hallow'd Woods where flow
Silver streams, fresh Gales do blow.

Those talk'd-of Doves in Vulter-found,
Near my Birth-soil th' Apulian ground,
Me a Child, when Sleeping head
(Toil'd through sport) with green Leaves spread.

Which thing might all amaze that hold
High nest-like Acherons if told,
Baltine woods or fruitful Plain
Doth Ferentum low contain.

That I should sleep preserv'd from Bear,
Black Vipers brood, and Quilt-like wear
Sacred Laurel, Mirtle given
(Infant bold) through power from Heaven.

Your's Muses, tall Sabine mounts
I clime, or should Præneste Founts,
Shades, declining Tibur please,
Liquid Baiæ near the seas.

Friend to your Springs and dancing Train,
Nor routed Hoast Philippian,
Palinurus rock, nor Tree
Fire devote could ruine me.

Whilst you my Guard, attendants thus,
Well-pleas'd th' enraged Bosphorus
Dare I mount, and travel o're
Scorcht Assyria's sandy shore.

Brittains to strangers fierce I'le view,
And Thrace where Milk horse-blood they brew;
North-Geloni quiver-arm'd,
And that Scythian stream, uncharm'd.

You CÆSAR great (when tir'd with War,
His troops in Vinter-quarters are)
After Toils desiring ease.
In Piærian Cell do please.

You give him gentle Rules and kind,
Rejoyce when given: how JOVE did grind
Wicked Titan's monstrous Rout
When Thunder bolts he tost about.

Who dull Earth stormy Seas doth sway,
With sad infernal Realms, barr'd day;
Gods and mortal crouds alone
Rules from just Imperial Throne.

Great fear that horrid Youth, at length,
Did cause to JOVE, since bold in strength;
Brothers, Pelion bent to spread
On Olympus gloomy head.

But what Tiphæus, Mimas strong?
Porphiriou dreadful-broad and long?
Rhæchus stout, Enceladus
Darting torn up Trees, when thus

Dar'd charge against the sounding Shield
Of Pallas wise? here Vulcan steel'd
Rav'nous show'd, whilst JUNO there;
And he who always Bow doth bear;

With pure Castalian Fount bedews
His large-comb'd Locks, doth hunting choose
Lycian Groves, where Native wood
(Delian APOLLO) stood.

Force councel-void with its own weight
Doth fall, whilst Gods advance to th' height
Force well govern'd; hating too
Bad strength all Mischief prone to do.

Prime witness to my Verdict free
Let hundred handed Gyges be;
And Orion who assail'd
Chast PHÆBE, by her Arrows quail'd.

Th' Earth grieves; upon her Monsters cast,
Whose Of-spring Thunder'd down at last
To ugly Hell: nor fiery power
Ætna's load can eat, devour.

Nor Titius breast doth Vulture leave,
But lustful Sins close Jaylours cleave:
Sad Perithons (o're bold
Lover) Chains three hundred hold.

Ode V.

He sets forth the Praises of Augustus, Shame of Crassus, Constancy of Regulus.

We do conclude, that Thundring JOVE doth reign
In Heaven above, on Earth AUGUSTUS sways,
Now stil'd God, who British train
To th' Empire joyn'd, with Persian race.

Old CRASSUS Souldiers once with barbarous Wives
Base Husbands liv'd, and under Arms grew old:
O Senate wrong'd! corrupted Lives
Of Father in Laws Hostile controll'd.

Serv'd Median King, Marsians, Apulians bred,
Our name, gown'd worth, and conquering Shields forgot;
Eternal VESTA'S Fires not fled,
JOVE safe with Rome from thralled blot.

This Regulus sought warily to shun,
Averse from foul conditions with the Foe;
Lest that Example should forerun
Succeeding times vast Overthruw;

If Youth once seiz'd not absolutely Dy'd,
Slave-terms renounc'd. I Banners saw, said he,
On Punick Temples hung, beside
Forc'd Arms, our Men from slaughter free.

Rome's Citizens, arms wreath'd behind their Back,
I saw inslav'd, ope stood the Gates secure;
Fields spoiled once by us (not flack)
Some of our Bands did till, manure.

With Gold redeem'd, more sharp for following Fight
They may return; you'l plead, you add but Loss
To th' foul Offence; chang'd Colour bright,
Woolls scarce restor'd through second Gloss:

Nor does true Vertue like, if conquer'd fall,
To be for worse reserv'd loath'd slavery;
Though Stags unloos'd may fight with all,
Toils broak; shall that Man valiant be?

Who yields himself to th' treacherous Foe's commands?
Will Penians he next fight oreturn? dismai'd?
Who endur'd their smarting Bands,
Sot-like, of grisly Death afraid.

This, ignorant mens Arms best life bestow,
Joyns peace with furious War; ah! shameful he!
Grand Carthage, thou dost taller grow
On ruines made of Italy.

Chast Wife's last Kiss (they talk) with Children's last,
He shun'd, as now grown baser Head, captiv'd;
Fix'd on earth (obliquely cast)
His manly Look; nor seem'd reviv'd,

Till had confirm'd the doubtful Senate round
By an Advice, ne're given before at all:
So still banish'd Man renown'd,
Hastned to's sad Comrades in thrall.

Though knew what pains by th' barbarous Torturer
Reserv'd for him, yet with no secure Port
(Friends remov'd which joyn'd to bar
His prompt return, and Vulgar sort)

Then if long Client's Cause; that troublous Crew,
Things now dispatch'd, forsook fresh Air to take;
behold Venafrian fields, or view
Tarentum-Town for pleasure sake.

Ode VI.

To the ROMANS, touching the corruped Manners of that Age.

Roman , thou Grandsire-crimes shalt rue,
Till falling Fanes o'th' Gods renew;
Cleanse those Images, with smoak,
Grown foul, which you invoke.

Whilst yield to th' Gods chief Empire's thine;
To those both first and last resign:
Gods contemn'd pour'd Vengeance free
On mournful Italy.

Now twice Monæse, Pacorus hand
Hath foil'd our hapless Roman Band;
Glistering, since joyned prize each day
To their small Chains, more gay.

Dacus and Æthiops hy might
Rome neer destroy'd 'midst Civil spight;
Dreadful that through Navy deem'd,
For Archers this esteem'd.

Our vile, Sin-fruitful Age abus'd
First Nuptial beds, thence stain diffus'd;
Slaughters from this Fountain flow'd
Through th' Common-wealth abroad.

The Virgin grown must learn to Dance
Ionick-ways, by Art can prance;
To Study from a Child begins
Base loves, and early Sins.

Younger Adulterers then seeks,
Her Spouse or'e gorg'd with Wine, nor picks
One i'th' Dark, to whom she may
Snatch'd Lawless Joys display;

But open call'd, and Conscious too
Her Spouse, does rising jet below;
Free for Merchant Pilot's game,
Dear purchasers of shame.

The Youth from no such Parents sprung
Dy'd Seas with blood from Punick wrung;
Whence ANTIOCUS did fall,
PYRRHUS, dire HANNIBAL:

But manly Race, more rustick-born,
Stout-bred; who practis'd oft (no scorn)
Sabine ploughs, would loaded bear
Cleft logs, if Task severe

Mother impos'd; when Sun did change
The Mountain-shades, and loos'd at Grange
Yoak'd Oxen tir'd; night drawing on,
Well pleas'd day's Charret gone.

What will not hurtful Time impair?
Our Fathers worse then Grandsires far,
More tainted Us produc'd; who will
Leave fouler Off-spring still.

To ASTERIE. Ode VII.

He comforts her touching her Husbands absence; and warns her, that she should prove chastly Faithful to him.

Why weep'st ASTERIE for GYGES thus?
Known constant Youth? whom soft Favonius
Will Spring-time come, with Wars restore
(Blest) from Cilician shore.

He driv'n to Oricus by northern blast,
Through Goats distemper'd Stars, cold nights does waste
As Widower, eyes waking though;
Whence Tear-shed Streams do flow.

But Agent from his troubled Hostess sent,
Chloe, how she (whisp'ring) does sigh, lament;
Sadly burns with thy Love-flame,
Tempts thousand ways, to blame.

How treacherous Wife, through forg'd accusing Spells,
Less doutful Prætus mov'd; this boldly tells;
Till strange Death was inflicted on
Th' o'rechast BELLEROPHON.

How PELIAS plung'd large way to Tartarus,
Since fled (more nice) Hippolite; this does
Falsly breath; such Story-train,
Sin-lectures though in vain:

For he more deaf than those Icarian Rocks
(Still true) such voices hears: but least unlocks
Neighbour thy Heart, love, fancy breed,
Young ENIPUS, take heed:

Though none amongst their Troop his equal found
For skilful Horsmanship, on MARS his ground:
Nor for naked Stream, besides,
So swift through Tiber glides.

Night come, shut close thy Doors, nor glance below,
When his complaining Pipe does Summons show:
And though calls thee oft at will
Hard Heart, be cruel still.

To MÆCENAS. Ode VIII.

Why though unmarried be observ'd that month of March Mæcenas should not wonder.

What's meant, since Batchelor, from hence,
This March as for Wifes goodness pray'd;
Why Flow'rs, this Pot of Frankincence,
Coals, Alter lay'd;

Learn'd in both Tongues, dost thou admire?
I Feast had vow'd to Bacchus, know,
White Goat since caus'd me near t'expire
Trees falling blow.

This day each Year kept Festival,
Pitch'd Cask shall rouze (for drinking Mood)
When TULLUS sway'd, though smoak'd withall
Since Consul stood.

MÆCENAS, take from rescu'd Friend
A hundred Cups, and watchful Light
Bring forth till Dawn; hence clamour send,
Jars banish quite.

Those dumps discharge for City state,
Since Cotison's great croud orethrown;
Self-burdenous Mede, through strifes of late,
In Arms does groan.

That antient Foe from Spanish soil
Now serves, though tam'd with later Chain:
Scythians, their Bows unbent, recoyl
From warlike Plain.

Disturb'd for Publique good, ore-sowr,
Shun too much thought, since private head;
And snatch those Guifts o'th' present hour,
Severeness fled.

To LYDIA. Ode IX.

A Dialogue touching their past Loves, and the renewing of them.

Ho.
Whilst I was grateful to thy Sence,
Nor other Youth more pleasing Arms did bring;
Clasp'd round thy purest Neck, from thence
More blisful far I shin'd then Persian King.

Ly.
Whilst thou didst with none other Flame
More fondly burn, nor LYDIA march'd behind
CHLOE, I then (with greatest Name)
That Roman ILIA most bright outshin'd.

Ho.
Me Thracian CHLOE governs now,
Taught sweetest Notes, and learn'd in Citherus skill;
For whom I'l Dye with fearless Brow,
So Fates spare her, my Soul surviving still.

Ly.
Me scorcheth too with mutual Fire
CALAIS Orinthus Son which does revive;
For whom I twice shall gladly expire,
So Fates preserve the Youth, keep him alive.

Ho.
What if first Appetite return,
And link us both in lasting Brazen chain?
If gold-hair'd CLOE scorned burn,
And Door stand ope' to Lydia lov'd again?

Ly.
Though he's more fair then splendid Star,
And thou more Light then floating Cork, then high
Rough Adrian Sea more angry far,
With thee I'l choose to Live, with thee to Dye.

To LYCE. Ode X.

He warns her jesting way, that laying aside harshness she would pitty him.

Though furthest Tanais, LYCE, thou didst Drink,
Barbarian's Wife, thou wouldst not then (I think)
Me prostrate near thy cruel Doors expose
To th' Northern Wind which constant blows.

Hark how thy Gates do sound, how all before
Thine House, behind, the Trees do blustring Roar;
And th' Air so purely sharp, serene the Sky,
That Snow's, congeal'd, does frozen ly.

O cast from Beauty, sweet, sow'r, harsh Disdain,
Least fades, and I recoil; nor beg again:
Thy Roman Sire not thee PENELOPE
Begot, still Deaf to Lover's Plea.

O if no Presents can, nor Prayers meek,
Nor Lover's pale, grown Violet-like Cheek,
Nor that thy Servant's turn'd PIERIA's Slave,
Thee move, incline, through Mercy save.

Most hard like sturdy Oak, like Africk Snakes
Unpittiful; this Flesh, which almost quakes,
Not still upon thy Threshold thus can lye,
Grapling with Storms extremity.

To MERCURY. Ode XI.

He begs of him, that he would teach him some Songs, whereby to move the Heart of Lyde, joyning that Story of the Danaides.

Mercury, taught by whom Renown'd
AMPHION mov'd with Voice the Stones;
And seven-string'd Lute, that canst resound
The Lover's moans;

Nor Languag'd once, nor lov'd, though now
For Rich men's boards and Temples art;
Chant Songs, that LYDE coy may bow
Both Ears and Heart.

Who like young Colt does Play at ease,
And trip the Fields, to th' Touch averse,
Unmarry'd Girl, nor taught to please
Stout Husband fierce.

Thou Tigers canst Comrades and Trees
With ORPHEUS lead Floods caus'd to stand;
Porter o'th' Hell-court, till crouch'd on Knees,
Didst charm, command:

Vast Cerberus; though hundred Snakes
His Fury's head did Guarding throng;
Whose Jaws black Fog, filth-voiding Lakes,
With treble Tongue.

Titius, Ixion's pains were eas'd
Through forced Smiles, th' Urns standing dry
Short term, whilst DANAUS Daughters pleas'd
With Harmony.

LYDE their Fact, known Punishment
Declare, their empty Tun, the stream
Still pour'd still flowing forth by vent;
Last Dooms no dream:

Which Faults attend in Hell, to fright.
O impious Shees! what more abhor'd?
Since kill'd their Husbands in one Night
With cruel Sword.

One Girl 'mongst Fifty worthy said,
Their Nuptial Torch, brave Lyer found
To th' perjur'd Sire; most noble Maid,
Still glory-crown'd.

Who call'd to her young Spouse, Arise,
Least lasting Sleep o're takes, (from whom
Not dream'd) bad Father in law surprise,
Worst Sisters come.

She-Lyons which as Calves do tear
Their Spouses round, more melting though,
I'le not kill thee, nor Pen thee there
For fatal Blow.

Me load my Sire with hardest Chains,
Since Gentle spar'd my wretched Spouse;
Imbark to th' far Numidians,
Expell'd his house.

Go where swift feet, Winds bear thee thus,
Night, VENUS shroud; good Omen have;
And sad Complaint remembring us
On Tomb engrave.

To NEOBULE. Ode XII.

He blames her, that being taken with the Love of Liparus, she led a sloathful life.

'Tis wretched Lot neither Love's sweets to tast,
Nor, Sorrows wash with sweetest Wine, but fear
An Uncles swadling Tongue; perplex'd; at last
VENUS wing'd Boy from thee does Distaff bear.
NEOBULE, thy Web's choice private art,
Young LIPARUS his Form hath banish'd quite;
Who excels Bellerophon for th' Horseman's part,
Not overcome by Race, nor sturdy Fight,
Or nointed when doth swim through Tiber's Flood:
Skillful for Dart, when flying Stags invades
From roused Heard through open Fields; as good
And swift t'assault the Boar from sculking Shades.

To the Fountain BLANDUSIA. Ode XIII.

He promises an Offering to that Fountain, and commends its pleasantness.

Blandusia-Fount, whose Cheek-like glass most bright,
Worthy sweet Wine, and Flow'rs; to Morrow's light
Grives thee Kid in Sacrifice,
Whose Front first horn'd doth rise.

In vain that Off-spring from the wanton heard
Both lust, and Frays intends with Rival fear'd;
Since soon he shall besprinkle ore
Thy Stream with crimson Gore.

The burning Dog-star's time and wrathful power
Cannot touch thee, who dost refresh that hour
Plough-share weari'd Ox, as kind
To th' wandring Sheep inclin'd.

Thou too shalt one o'th' Noble Springs be made;
Whilst I that Elm commend, whose Branches shade
Shrouds th' hollowed Rock from whence below
Thy pratling Streams do flow.

To the PEOPLE of ROME. Ode XIV.

He praises Augustus, late returned out of Spain a Conquerour.

Like Hercules, behold again
(Since Laurel priz'd at life they sought)
CÆSAR his Houshold-Gods from Spain
Has Victor brought.

March forth each Wife of single Spouse,
To th' Gods yield Sacrifice, first plac'd
Sister to th' Noble Chief; your brows
With Fillet grac'd.

Mothers of safe Young men enjoy'd,
Youths last, new-marry'd Wives, which thus
Spectators prove, bad Speech avoid,
Spightful, ominous.

This day, true Feast to me, like Cloud
Black thoughts dispels; no tumult ere
My heart (grand CÆSAR Prince allow'd
To th' World) shall fear.

Go Boy, for Unguent, Garlands run,
Wines old as Marsyan broyls advance;
Rambling Spartacus croud some Tun
If scap'd by chance.

And wish shrill-voyc'd NÆERA too
Bind up her Myrrh-perfumed Hair;
If Porter loath'd cause stops, ado,
Fond waiting spare:

Gray head damps, mitigates the mind,
Else prone to Brauls and quarrelling;
My Youth, when PLANCUS Consul shin'd,
Had scorn'd that thing.

On CHLORIS. Ode XV.

That growing Old she should set bounds unto her Wantonness.

Wife of poor IBICUS, thou must
At length set bounds to thy long wicked Lust;
Those fam'd Venerean Toyls, and all,
Since neerer grown thy speedy Funeral:
Leave playing amongst the Virgin-train
Those bright-Cheek'd Stars with gloomy Cloud to stain.
Not what's for Phloe fit doth thee,
CHLORIS, become; thy Daughter may more free
Push ope' the young men's Doors, like one
With BACCHUS Taber wild, and maddish grown:
Whom NOTHUS love can make to Dance,
And sport like wanton Kid, if Eye but glance:
Grown old, thy Huswife's Wheel at home,
Lucerian Woolls, not Citherus touch become:
Nor purple, Roses youthful Flower;
Nor Barrels drunk atilt till Dregs do pour.

To MÆCENAS. Ode XVI.

All things lye open unto Gold, but Horace seemeth happy in his smaller Fortune.

Clos'd DANAE Doors strongly barr'd,
Brass-Tower, with dreadful Watch and Guard
Of Dogs, might well have fortify'd
From Nightly Rapes un-ey'd;

If JOVE and VENUS had not thus
Turn'd laughing-stock Acrisius,
Nice Jaylour there; set ope' that Hold,
The God transform'd to Gold.

Gold passes Guarding bands, the Rock,
Stout Walls more fierce then Thunders stroke;
Breaks through Greek Augur's house, for gain
Sunk down with all his Train.

Through Bribes that Prince of Macedon
Cleft City-gates, proud Kings o're-thrown;
Rough Lords, stern Captains of the Sea
Insnar'd, become their Prey.

Care follows still with Thirst of more
Wealth's growing Stock, whence I abhor,
As just (MÆCENAS Knight) where-ere,
Transcendent Crest to bear.

Who more himself doth curb, Deny,
From Gods has more; thus naked I
Tents of th' ungreedy train pursue;
Abandon'd wealthy Crew.

More gallant Lord in what I dare
Contemn, then held my Barns most fair
What's reaped from th' Apulian ground;
'Midst all but Needy found.

My smaller Grove, pure dainty Spring,
And faithful Corn hopes answering
Deceive (more blessed Lot) that Man
Styled chief Prince African.

Though no Calabrian swarms me glut
With Honey's hoards, nor Formian Butt
Lodg aged Wine, rich grounds of France
By Fleekes my wealth advance;

Yet craving Want my Roof doth fly:
Nor ask'd I more wouldst thou Deny.
Thoughts bounded thus, I'l freelier pay
CÆSAR small Dues, then lay

Whole Kingdoms else conjoyn'd mine own.
Who covet much Want much alone:
He's blest whom God with sparing hand
Gives what's Enough, well scan'd.

To ÆLIUS LAMIAS. Ode XVII.

He praises Lamias his Noble Birth, then wishes him to spend the next Day cheerfully.

Ælius renown'd, from antient LAMUS sprung,
Th' old LAMIÆ; since thence deriv'd, 'tis sung
By Fame, with their successive Race;
Which truth mindful Records do blaze.

From that grand Root thou draw'st Original,
Who first did build, possess the Formian Wall
Sway'd where stream of Lyris too
Marica's grounds doth travel through:

Far-ruling King, to Morrow th Eastern Wind
Wood-banks will strow with leaves, through Storm unkind;
Spread with base Sea-weed the Shore,
If th' Augure-bird for Rainy store,

Th' old Raven fail not: now build nimble Fire
Whilst yet thou mayst, to Morrow Wine acquire;
With Porket small thy Genius please,
Whilst Servants free'd from Work, at ease.

To FAUNUS, Ode XVIII.

He intreats the Wood-God, that passing through his Fields, he would be gentle and propitious to him.

Faunus, who flying Nimph dost love,
O gently pass my Bounds, and move
Through th' open Fields; kind leave the Flock,
Young growing stock.

As tender Kid we do assign
Each Year to thee, with plenteous Wine
VENUS Comrade; whilst Incence-smoak
Th' old Altar choak.

Cattle do frisk on Banks each-where,
When thy December Nones appear;
Feast kept with idle Ox by Swains
Through grassy Plains

Wolves then may stalk by Lambkins bold,
Woods drop their Leaves to thee, new-pol'd;
Whilst Bigger beasts in dancing Mirth
Hate toylsom Earth.

To TELEPHUS. Ode XIX.

He blames him jestingly, that, writing antient Histories, he doth neglect Lifes pleasing comforts.

How long INACHUS Argive King,
E're Athens CODRUS rul'd, who bravely dy'd
Thou tell'st; ÆACUS stock dost sing,
Those Battails fought near sacred Troy beside.
What price large Tun we may acquire
O'th' Chios-grape, where washing Bath bestow'd;
At whose kind house, and when with Fire
Sharp Cold we shall dispel, no mention show'd.
Boy, fill cup strait for th' rising Moon,
For Midnight fill to th' Murene Augur's praise;
Third lastly pour: our Drink let run
In three choice Boals, or Nine, convenient ways:
The Poet rapt, who Muses loves,
Uneven Nine, may thrice three Cups require;
Three Graces though (least plenty moves
Disorder, broyls) 'bove Three forbid t'aspire;
That nak'd and harmless Sister-hood.
Now wilder Vein transports, why ceas'd the sound
Of Berecynthian Pipe so good?
Why hangs the Flute with Harp, to silence bound?
O're-thrifty Niggard hands I hate;
Fresh Roses spread, let envious Licus hear
Our mad-tun'd Noyse with squeamish Mate;
For Licus old let neighbour Girl give ear:
Spruce, gallant hayr'd, Friend TELEPHUS,
Thee, Match to th' bright resplendent Morning-star,
Ripe CLOE suits: whilst burneth us
GLYCERA's lingring Love, my scornful Fair.

To

Changed on good grounds.

PYRRHA. Ode XX.

That she would not draw NEARCHUS from his present Sweet-heart.

Pyrrha, dost see what danger nigh?
Since Lionesses whelp dost move?
Combate ere long thou't gladly fly,
Faint Lurcher prove:

When she shall Youthful crouds survey,
NEARCHUS searching for, renown'd;
Bad strife 'twill prove whose lovely Prey
He'll then be found.

Whilst thou draw'st nimble Shafts to fright,
She whets her Teeth more dreadful grown;
Thus Palm, chief Arbiter o'th Fight,
He stamps upon:

Does sport, his Shoulders proud bespread
With Locks perfum'd i'th' gentle Air,
Like NEREUS once snatch'd GANIMEDE
From Ida fair.

To his WINE-VESSEL. Ode XXI.

He warns it pleasantly, to pour forth its old Wine for Corvinus sake; then praises Wine.

Blest Cask, when MANLIUS Consul, born with me;
Whether Complaints thou hold, or Mirth more free,
Brauls, wild Lust, or gentle Sleep;
Since influential Bath dost keep.

Be't with what Name it will that thou dost bear
Choice Massick Wine, (worthy) Feast-day how ere,
Broaching at CORVINE's command;
Give way, pour forth thy Juice at hand.

Who, though well drench'd in Philosophick strains,
Socratick books, not (Rigid) thee disdains:
CATO's Virtue oft ('tis told)
Did warm it self with Wine, more bold.

Thou provest oft that pleasing Rack, to try
Gross, dullest Brains; thou into th' Heart dost pry;
Wise-men's Cares; their deep design.
Lay'st ope unlock'st in merry Wine.

Thou Hope with strength bring'st back, through pow'rful Charm,
To th' fainting Brest; thou Poor with Horns dost arm;
After stoutest thee not fearing
King's churlish Brow, Foe's blades appearing.

Thee LIBER shall with frolick VENUS too
(If present) draw those Graces, slow t'undo
Their Girdles ty'd: surviving Light,
Till th' Eastern Sun chace Stars to flight.

On DIANA. Ode XXII.

He consecrates that Pine in his Farm to her, setting forth her Offices.

Hills Governess and Maid o'th' Wood,
Who Girls when labouring with Brood
Dost hear, thrice call'd, reviv'st that Hour;
Three formed Pow'r:

Claim thou my Pine devote, I shall
Each year joyn Blood of Boar withal;
Who Meditates best way to strike
With Gash oblique.

To PHIDILE. Ode XXIII.

The Gods are to be worship'd with pure hands, and a good Conscience.

If, Country-PHIDILE, rais'd hands, desires
Thou lift to Heav'n, when birth o'th' Moon requires;
Shalt with Fruits this years encrease,
Pork, Frankincence House-Gods appease:

Nor shall thy clustred Vines consumed fail
Through South-winds rage, nor throng'd Corn-fields bewail
Barren blast, sweet Children know
Unhealthful time when Pears do grow.

Let that on snowy Algidus doth feed
'Mongst Oakes and Holms, or Alban pastures breed,
(Beasts devoted long and slain
By Vow) the Priestly Axes stain.

Thou needst not with various slaughter please
Of two-years Sheep thy petty Gods, more ease,
When crown'd with Rosemary, some bough
From Myrtle frail adorn'd their Brow,

If with pure hands to th' Altar thou dost bring,
Thy Gods displeas'd no plenteous Offering
More shall move (abandon doubt)
Then leaping Salt with Corn devout.

On greedy RICH MEN. Ode XXIV.

Though Wealth thou vauntest more
Then th' Ind, untouch'd Arabia's store;
Dost gorge with structures vain
Th' intire Tyrrhene and Pontick Main;
Since Fate the lofti'st Crest
With Adamantine Darts hath prest,
Nor free'd from Fear thy mind,
Nor head from snares of Death untwin'd.
More Field-bred Scythians live,
Whose Carts their vagrant Houses drive;

Firce Getes whose common ground
Free Crops affords, discharg'd from Bound:
Nor longer Tillage love
Then one full year lik Task must prove
His Mate whilst he does play,
Th' ensuing months keeps Holyday.
Mild, harmless Stepdames there
With Sons in law more gently bear;
Nor Wife through Dowry great
Her Spouse o'rerules, kept Letcher neat;
Sweet heart: grand Portion be
Parents good fame, Maids chastity;
Sure-bound not daring slide,
Restraint and Death the price beside
O he that slaughters harm
Would stop, and Civil madness charm,
Rome's Father stil'd does love
On Statue's brest; let bridled prove
Licentiousness o'th' time,
Whence fam'd to th' After-age: bad Crime,
Vertue alive we hate,
Envy, but seek when seiz'd by Fate.
But what's complaint, alas,
If still th' Offence unpunish'd pass?
Law's vain if Lives not grown
Reform'd; when parts most Torrid known,
Whom burning Heat surrounds,
For Boreas frost clad neighbour-grounds,
Where crusted Snows do ly,
Warn Merchants thence: when Seamen try
To master dreadful Seas:
Want held so great disgrace by these,
They'l tug with any thing;
But quit the Virtuous suffering.
Or now let's throw in scorn
Gems, Gold the Capitol t'adorn
(Where vulgar noise doth Crown)
Base trash; or neerest-Sea let drown;
Since worst of mischiefs breed:
If for our Faults peplext indeed,
First Elements we must
Root forth of base Desires and Lust:
Soft tender Minds still train
To sharper things: your Generous strain

Nor War-bred Horse can ride;
Nor dares pursue the Boar, well try'd:
For Grecian Tops or proud
Of Dice, by Laws not fit allow'd.
While th' perjur'd Sire his Friend
House-guest doth cheat, to leave i'th' end
Gold for th' unworthy Boy;
Whose naughty Bags though brood with joy,
And fruitful Piles grow more
Still something wants, like slender Store.

To BACCHUS. Ode XXV.

Inspir'd by Bacchus, he will frame new Lyrick Verses of Augustus.

Where, BACCHUS, dost thou hurry me
By thee Inspir'd? driv'n to what Woods, or Dens?
Swift through new spirit Divine, more free:
Where sculk'd shall I be heard (bove mortal men's
Th' eternal Praise of CÆSAR fam'd
Advance to th' Stars, and JOVE'S grand Councel there?
I'l great things chant, fresh, unproclaim'd
By former mouth; so does from th' Hills appear
Rapt BACCHUS Priest with sleepless eye,
When Heber views, and shrouded white with Snow
North-Thrace, Mount Rhodope on high;
Trod still by barbarous feet when Sacred show.
How wandring am I pleas'd t'admire
Both Rocks and Woods! O who dost Naiades,
With thine own Priestess rank, inspire
With strength t'oreturn tall Ashes, if they please!
No smaller thing nor vulgar ways,
Nought Mortal I'l pronounce; sweet, bold design
(O BACCHUS) 'tis that God to trace,
For Chief, whose brows begirt with branching Vine.

To VENUS. Ode XXVI.

Now growing Old, he bids farewel both to his Harp and amorous things.

I late was Match for Maidens thought,
Nor then without some Glory fought;
But now mine Arms, deceased Lute
(Through war) this Temple's wall shall suit;

Which guards fair VENUSSES left side,
(Sea born) here hang mine Engines ty'd:
Night-walking Torch, fierce Bars and Bow,
Threatning to stout clos'd Doors a blow.

Thou Goddess of blest Cyprus ground
And Memphis-Queen (whence banish'd round
Thrace-snows) with high-rais'd scourge (to smart)
Once touch proud CHLOE'S hardest heart.

To GALATEA Sailing. Ode XXVII.

He disswades her from that Danger by Europa's example.

Let impious Ones foul-singing Parra's sign
In journey lead, pregnant Bitch-Fox combine;
Or tawny Wolf from fields of Lanuvine:
Or let some winding Snake, doth crossing scar
Their Charret-horse, from journey them debar:
I doubt not thee, Good my presagings are
Before that rain-divining Bird does go
To th' standing Fens, that boading-voiced Crow
I'l from Sun-rise invoke good Omens show.
Maist thou where-ere blest, Galatea, prove,
Though gone from hence, live mindful of our Love;
Nor left-hand Raven, Pye from going move.
But seest? what stormy Noise ORION sends,
Nigh-set? what th' Adrian Port grown black portends.
I know, how clear Iapix Wind offends.

Let Wives of Foes those secret Workings feel
Of rising Kya, Seas dark, enchafed still;
Whilst batter'd Banks doe seem to tremble, Reel.
Thus bold EUROPA trusts her Snowy side
To th' false enamour'd Bull, pale-cheek'd did ride,
When Seas with Whales and bull's false arts descry'd.
Whom, choosing Flow'rs i'th' field the Nimphs to crown
As challeng'd debt, by Night (when clearer grown)
She back'd, nought viewing but Stars and Waves alone.
Return'd to Crete, of hundred Cities Fame,
She frantick cry'd; O Fathers slighted Name,
And Daughters piety! quench'd Vertue's flame!
Whither now brought? One Death's too small to dye
For Virgin's Crime; bad fact with waking eye
Dost mourn, deplore? or cheats fond Phantasie?
Elizian dream? else pure, unstain'd; as though
'Twere finer on smooth vastest Waves to goe,
Then crop fresh Flow'rs in painted Meads below.
O would some Man that vilest Beast from Fate
Yield to my Rage, some sharp edg'd Sword should bait
That Bull, and rend his Horns belov'd of late.
Past shame, my Fathers houshold-gods I fly,
Past shame yet live; some gentler Deity
(If hears) 'mongst Lions wandring let me die.
Ere Leanness foul doth starving wast, abuse
My yet plump Cheeks, and drink their youthful Juice,
Whilst tender Prey, and fair let Tigers bruise.
EUROPA loath'd! thy Father still does check,
Unseen; why dy'st thou not? Go stretch thy Neck
On yonder Ash, thy Girdle waits at beck.
Or would sharp Rocks delight, Death's swifter kind?
Go, cast thee down to th' whirling stormy Wind;
Unless some Handmaids Task could please thy Mind;
A Princess spin, serve barbarous Mistress so;
Foul Strumpet turn'd. VENUS o're-heard her Woe,
And laugh'd, her Boy set by with unbent Bow.
Till cloy'd with Mirth enough, said Fy; in jeer;
Leave these fond Brauls, that loathed Bull (where-ere)
Shall strait present his Horns for you to tear.
Know'st not th' art Wife to strongest JOVE? for shame
Quit Sobs, Complaints, to thy grand Fortune frame;
The World's first part proves called by thy Name.

To LYDE. XXVIII.

He perswades her to spend Neptune's Festival more chearfully.

Reserved choice Cæcubian wine,
Stout LYDE, draw, what fitter for this Hour?
For NEPTUNE'S Festival-design?
Thy Wisdome strong too serious thoughts ore-power.
The Noon thou seest still faster run,
And yet as though swift Day did pausing stand
Dost spare to move that resting Tun,
Undrunk since Consul BIBULUS did command.
NEPTUNE with pure Sea-Nymphs, by course,
Green-hair'd Nereides I'l singing vaunt:
Latona, her who darts with force,
Swift DIAN thou to th' crooked Harp shalt chant:
VENUS (for cloze) whom Cnidus-town,
Clear Cyclades prefer; who Paphos-Isle,
View'd oft with yoaked Swans, doth crown:
Night too shall have her solemn Song fit stile.

To MÆCENAS. Ode XXIX.

He invites him to a merry Supper, publick Cares omitted.

Mæcenas, branch from Tyrrhene Kings inroll'd;
Wine-cask unstir'd, which milder Juice does hold,
We reserved have long time
For thee, with Roses flow'r in prime:

Choice Unguent, last, thy fragrant Locks to dew:
Come, stay not then; don't always fixed view
Tibur moist, with Æsul field
Nor Tel'gon Mounts who Father kill'd:

But plenty leave, from cloying store withdraw,
Thy lofty'st Tower which neighbouring Clouds do aw;
Cease t'admire the smoaky womb,
Grand wealth and Noise of happy Rome.

Some times, I pray: Change oft the Rich doth please;
And cleanly, short Repasts have smooth'd to these
Troubled brows in poor men's Cells,
No Arras where nor Purple dwells.

Now Summer-star, that bright-ey'd Cepheus shows
His hidden Fire, and raging Porcion grows;
Furious Lion; droughty days
The Sun enkindleth through new Rays.

Now Pastor faint with lazy Flock doth pry
For cooling streams, Silvanus-walks more nigh;
Thick frequent; Banks calmed be
And hush'd, from windy Vagrants free.

Thou plod'st on great Affairs, the City how
To manage, rule; what Seres (pensive) now,
Dost fear, or Bactrians 'gainst the State,
Rough Tanais Neighbours machinate.

Wise God in darkest Night ore-masked hides
Future events, that busy Man derides,
Who beyond his lawful Sphere
Doth stray, perplext: Salve dangers near;

Present compose, as right: Things future have
Their River's course, which now with peaceful Wave
Dance in their Channel, smoothly glide
To th' western Sea; and then through pride

Sturdy become, big-swoln; Rocks, shatter'd Stones,
Torn Houses, Trees, Sheep, Heards roul down at once;
(Hills and Woods conjoyn'd i'th' Noise)
Show'rs vexing them. He self enjoys,

And chearful lives, that using time can say,
Through tasted present Goods, I've liv'd this Day:
To morrow let Heaven's Father bright
With sullen Clouds the Pole benight.

Or guild with purer Beams; what Joys are past,
And gone behind he will not vainly blast,
Nor undoe call back by pow'r,
What's snatch'd from hence by the flying Hour.

Fortune, which seems in cruel work to glory,
For haughty Games (as 'twere) found peremptory;
Honours throws with doubtful mind;
Now good to me, then t'others Kind:

I praise her while she stays, but if she shake
Her swift-plum'd Wings, I back resign, forsake
What she gave; in Virtue I
Me shroud, hug honest Poverty.

I like not Gods with dismal Pray'rs t'implore,
And bargain'd Vows, when my torn Mast does roar
Through Southern wind, left Cyprus-goods,
Or Tyre enrich the greedy Floods:

Which ventur'd ere, stout Me some petty Gale,
(With gentle Twins) convoy'd in Vessel frail,
Double-oar'd shall safe command
Through rough Ægean storms to land.

To the Muse MELPOMENE. Ode XXX.

Horace hopes through his writing Lyrick Verse he hath gain'd eternal Glory.

I've wrought a Monument more strong then Brass,
Which doth the Towry Pyramid surpass,
For Regal height; which neither eating Storm,
Nor North-winds feeble rage shall hurt, deform,
Nor countless years. I will not wholy die,
Though Ages rot; but my large part shall fly
The churlish Hearse, in after praise and Friends
Surviving still: so long as Priest ascends
The Capitol with Maid to silence fram'd:
I meaner born yet great will be proclaim'd;
What way rough Aufidus doth wandring Roar;
Or DAUNUS (poor in streams) men ruled ore:
The first that Grecian Verse to Roman art,
Numbers deriv'd: then take thy Glories part,
MELPOMENE, from hence, and freely now
With Delphick Laurel crown thy Poets Brow.

University of Virginia Library

HORACE HIS THIRD BOOK OF ODES.

To C. ASINIUS POLLIO. Ode I.