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The virgin huntress' rapid dart

From her unconquer'd quiver flew,

And high-aspiring Tityus slew,

That mortals may desire to prove

The transports of permitted love."

So they their mutual thoughts impart.

Then with his mules and polish'd car

Came Pelias rushing from afar.

Mute wonder held his mind in thrall

Soon as alone the right foot round

He view'd the well-known sandal bound.

But with dissembled fear address'd

The monarch, his unwelcome guest:

What country boast'st thou thy dear land to call?

Fair offspring of a spotless womb,

By mortal lineage art thou come?

Tell quickly thine illustrious race,

Nor by detested lies disgrace."

To him the bold and fearless youth

In placid words this answer gave:

"I come from Chiron's shady cave,

Who disciplined my soul to truth.

By Chariclo and Philyra the fair,

Centaurus' daughters, I was nurtured there.

But when the twentieth year had fled,

Homeward my youthful steps I bent.

To them no word of parting said,

Naught that could mark my fix'd intent

To take the sceptre of the land,

Grasp'd by another's lawless hand.

An honour which the king of heaven

To Æolus and to his sons had given.

For Fame reports that Pelias bold,

Slave to his wishes uncontroll'd,

My honour'd parents' rightful sway

Has snatch'd with violence away.