Page:Odes of Pindar (Myers).djvu/172



This ode again was written neither for a Nemean nor for any other athletic victory, but for the or initiatory ceremonies at the election of a new  of Tenedos. The Prytanis would seem to have been a kind of President of the Senate. The date is unknown.

of Rhea, who hast in thy keeping the city halls, O Hestia! sister of highest Zeus and of Hera sharer of his throne, with good-will welcome Aristagoras to thy sanctuary, with goodwill also his fellows who draw nigh to thy glorious sceptre, for they in paying honour unto thee keep Tenedos in her place erect, by drink-offerings glorifying thee many times before the other gods, and many times by the savour of burnt sacrifice; and the sound of their lutes is loud, and of their songs: and at their tables never-failing are celebrated the rites of Zeus, the stranger's friend.

So with fair fame and unvexed heart may Aristagoras fulfil his twelve-month term.

Blessed among men I his father Arkesilas, and himself for his splendid body and his heritage of a dauntless heart.

But if any man shall possess wealth, and withal surpass his