Page:Aratus The Phenomena and Diosemeia.pdf/52

44 When the mute shell, by cords elastic bound, Made vocal warbled forth harmonious sound— Jove snatch'd from earth the care-dispelling — The Gods themselves sweet melody admire. Before the Labouring Man its place in heaven— To smooth toil's rugged brow sweet music given.

Next soars with wings expanding far and wide Around the pole in majesty to glide Jove's mottled. Th’ adulterous bird, they say, That lent his form fair Leda to betray. His curving neck around the Lyre he bends— To distant sky his diamond head extends— Dark and obscure in parts—in others bright Studded his wings with numerous gems of light. Like to a hovering bird his pinions rest, While floating tranquilly he seeks the west. Reaches one foot to Cepheus far aloof— Touches one wing the flying-horse's hoof.

About this steed extends the — Upon his mane rests his hand.

Before him —of monster kind— In front a goat—a scaly fish behind. Down to his realms each year the Sun descends: Returning thence with strength renew'd ascends. Hapless the mariners, who rashly brave, Or fates compel to tempt, the wintry wave.